Shocking seafarer stats

The global shipping industry must urgently improve seafarer well-being, making life at sea safer and more inclusive to attract future generations, according to a report by the Diversity@Sea pilot, a Global Maritime Forum initiative. The report highlights critical areas such as abuse, work-life balance, and better onboard facilities, based on data from 400 seafarers and 12 shipping companies.

The report comes amid rising concerns over poor working conditions for 1.9 million seafarers, worsened by ongoing conflicts and the COVID-19 pandemic. Seafarer labor shortages are at a 17-year high, posing risks to global trade.

The well-being of the 1.9 million seafarers globally is now critical to avoiding existential threats to the smooth operation of global trade…

Susanne Justesen, Director of Human Sustainability at the Global Maritime Forum, emphasized the need for better working conditions to sustain global trade. Susanne Justesen, Director of Human Sustainability at the Global Maritime Forum, said: “As critical as that is, improving the well-being of the 1.9 million seafarers globally is now critical to avoiding existential threats to the smooth operation of global trade we rely on every day.”

The report outlines seven key areas for improvement, including zero tolerance for harassment, better contracts, improved internet access, guaranteed helplines, parental support, inclusive protective equipment, and transparent training systems.

Twelve shipping companies involved in the pilot introduced measures such as gender-appropriate facilities and 24/7 Wi-Fi to improve life at sea. The findings will be developed into guidelines by 2025 to help shape the future maritime work environment. Read entire article here.

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