On the International Day of the
Seafarer, IMO Secretary-General Mr. Arsenio Dominguez pays tribute to the 2
million seafarers who keep global markets functioning and supply chains going.
In a video message to seafarers, Mr. Dominguez
said: “Seafarers have been sorely tested in recent years – facing hostile acts
from piracy or in conflict zones. I humbly acknowledge seafarers’ resilience
and sacrifice in the name of work.”
Without seafarers there would be no
shipping. And shipping is a lifeline for global trade.
United Nations Secretary-General, Mr.
António Guterres marked the day, saying: “Seafarers are vital in ensuring a
seamless flow of essential goods that eventually make it into markets, homes,
and onto our tables... But their own lives have been put on the line in the
face of grave threats. Let us together salute them for their essential work and
support their safety.” (Read UNSG’s full statement)
Attacks in the Red Sea
Attacks against international
shipping can never be justified.
Since November 2023, innocent
seafarers have been targeted in ongoing attacks on ships traveling through the
Red Sea, stemming from geopolitical tensions. Too many attacks have been
launched, damaging or sinking vessels, and resulting in at least four deaths,
with many others injured.
IMO calls for the immediate and
unconditional release of the Galaxy Leader and its crew, held
for more than eight months.
IMO Secretary-General Dominguez said:
“On this Day of the Seafarer, let us remember those who have lost their lives
while simply doing their jobs, serving on these ships. Their dedication and
sacrifice must not be overlooked. Attacks on the innocent can never be
justified, and I will continue to advocate incessantly for the safety and
well-being of seafarers.”
(See also: Honouring seafarers who have
lost their lives in attacks on ships in the Red Sea)
Join the campaign: Share safety tips
and experiences
To raise awareness about the safety
of seafarers, an IMO social media campaign has been launched, focusing on
safety at sea.
Seafarers are invited to share photos
and top tips for safety at sea, using the hashtag, #SafetyTipsAtSea on Facebook, LinkedIn, X or Instagram.
Ms. KC Abigail Chin-Sood, a seafarer
from the Philippines, shared her tips for women in the sector: “Safety at sea
involves not only adhering to the highest standards of work safety but also,
for women, establishing and maintaining clear boundaries with male colleagues.
Preserving your dignity on board is crucial for ensuring your personal safety.
By maintaining professionalism and setting boundaries, you can protect yourself
from potential scandals and preserve your mental well-being, contributing to a
safer and more positive experience on the ship.”
Mr. Yrhen Bernard Sabanal Balinis,
also from the Philippines, added: “Communication is key onboard ships.
Whether it be anchoring, pilot boarding, or mooring, the officers need keen
situational awareness to ensure that things are running safely... But effective
shipboard communication is not only limited to those. Is a crewmate
feeling down, homesick, or anxious? Is abruptly agitated or constantly
isolated? Has their performance drastically plummeted? Tactful
communication plays an instrumental role in seafarers' psychological safety.”
Organizations, shipping companies and
anyone in the wider maritime community and public are also invited to show
support for seafarers by joining the conversation with the hashtag.
Follow the conversation using
#SafetyTipsAtSea or #DayOfTheSeafarer.
· Honouring seafarers who have
lost their lives in the Red Sea
More about the Day of the
Seafarer 2024