MACN (Maritime
Ant-Corruption Network) is once again highlighting the often overlooked but
detrimental level of corruption seafarers encountered in ports around the
world. MACN does a lot to fight corruption and they know that still much is to
be done.
In an interview with the BBC, they are
recounting the stories of crewmembers who are regularly confronted with demand
for cigarettes, food, or more, to ensure easy processing in and out of ports.
The organization was
started 11 years ago by a small group of maritime companies that were trying to
“ensure a maritime industry free of corruption,” according to MACN’s website.
The organization has grown to over 200 companies globally using collective
action to tackle the problem.
MACN’s operating statement reads that it is working
toward the elimination of all forms of maritime corruption…As part of their awareness campaign, they appeared on the BBC recently to discuss maritime corruption. MACN told the BBC it had received 61,000 reports in more than 1,000
ports across 150 countries in the decade since the organization was launched.
Last year alone, in 2023 they received 5,183 reports they told the BBC.
They highlight the
so-called “gratuities” are against international anti-corruption laws.
Officially, the shipping companies forbid the policy, but many of the seafarers
said these things often happen. Experts suggest that shipping companies are
looking the other way, focused on maintaining schedules.
The worst case they recounted was a captain taken
from his ship at gunpoint because he says he refused to hand over cigarettes to
port officials. He contends they held
him and trumped up charges with a fine for “paperwork irregularities.” some
crews were afraid to report the incident fearing they would be unable to get
more work in the industry.
BBC spoke with other
organizations. The International Association of Ports and Harbours told them
that “tangible progress has been made,” citing its efforts in places including
the Gulf of Suez, the Indian subcontinent, and in Africa.
MACN told the BBC it was working with governments
in nine countries to tackle corrupt officials. They however admitted to the BBC that there is
still much to be done. MACN said it is working to help companies understand the
risks and have better-articulated policies to help combat corruption