Tag: abandonment of seafarers

Francesca Fairbairn, Oceans Programme Manager, Institute for Human Rights and Business (IHRB), raises the alarm over the criminalisation of seafarers—a growing and serious issue that ranks alongside crew abandonment as one of the most pressing challenges facing seafarers today.

The International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) reported that several flag states are hindering efforts to resolve abandonment cases.

New data from the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) reveals abandonment of seafarers by ship-owners increased by 87% in 2024 from the previous year. 

According to the International Labor Organization (ILO), there are 1,145 abandonment incidents listed in joint IMO/ILO database since it was established in 2004, concerning 16,569 seafarers.

During its 111th session held in person from April 22 to 26, 2024, the IMO Legal Committee (LEG 111) covered various topics, including seafarer issues. Key discussions addressed the fair treatment of seafarers, and the establishment of a new Task Force to review the abandonment database.

Sixteen seafarers from Syria and India are stranded in the city of Hodeidah, Yemen, which came under attack from Israeli airstrikes over the weekend, with eight trapped on board the Captain Tarek. 

Data from the first quarter of 2024 from the International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network’s (ISWAN) helpline SeafarerHelp points to the complex working conditions facing many seafarers.

Cases of seafarers abandoned by shipowners without money, support, or the means to get home have reached alarming levels around the world, according to Stella Maris. 

IMO’s Legal Committee has finalized a new set of guidelines to ensure seafarers are protected against unfair treatment if detained in foreign jurisdictions on suspicion of committing a crime. 

The IMO Legal Committee meets in person for its 111th session (LEG 111) from 22 to 26 April 2024, where various legal matters will be discussed.