Shocking Study Reveals Seafarers Forced to Pay Illegal Recruitment Fee Affecting Their Mental Health

It shows that this practice, declared illegal by the Maritime Labour Convention, continues to be rampant. The research focussed on the recruitment fee to get insights into debt levels and its mental health impacts.

Over 2,600 seafarers filled out the 2024 survey, and about half of them paid between $500 and $5000, and some even paid over $10,000.

A fitter from the Philippines mentioned that when he gave money to the fleet manager or the agency, he didn’t have to wait for a longer duration for the next ship assignment. If the money is not given, the wait is too long.

Researchers highlighted that the resultant debts from giving money to secure contracts push seafarers into slavery-like scenarios and unsafe conditions onboard vessels. This scheme also leads to choosing recruits who pay the money rather than ones who are the most qualified. About three-quarters of seafarers admitted that this system impacts their mental health adversely.

A deck cadet from India mentioned that seafarers have several problems in the beginning, from completing cadetship, to clearing mate exams with their salary. The financial issues and family responsibilities make it more difficult.

The research revealed that 74% of those who paid the fee did so because they were unaware. Also, 80% did not report it to the authorities because they didn’t know it was illegal.

Francesca Fairbairn, who leads IHRB’s work on shipping and commodities, added that a part of the problem is a lack of information among shipping companies and cargo owners that seafarers pay such fees. The former must ensure that seafarers onboard their ships are not victims of this illegal trap.

Isabelle Rickmers, the CEO and founder of TURTLE, said that the fact that one in three seafarers is impacted, irrespective of rank or nationality, is quite concerning. This cannot be ignored as it prevents talent from entering the maritime sector.