Written by Scott Mitchell, Technical Development Manager at Idwal and ex-seafarer.
Recent events in the Black Sea, the Red Sea, the Persian Gulf and the COVID-19 crew-change crisis have highlighted the challenges seafarers can face during periods of geopolitical instability. While global trade continues to rely on the professionalism and resilience of crews, these events have reinforced the importance of ensuring that seafarers are properly supported when operating in more complex or higher-risk
environments.
In my view, protecting seafarer wellbeing requires collaboration across the industry. Flag states, shipowners, managers and international organisations all have a role to play in ensuring crews have access to clear information, appropriate support and effective protections when circumstances change rapidly.
For flag states, this means providing timely guidance and maintaining clear channels of communication with vessels operating under their registry. During periods of heightened geopolitical tension, access to reliable information can help owners, managers and crews make better-informed decisions.
For shipowners and managers, the focus should be on transparency, preparation and support. Seafarers should be kept informed about the risks associated with a voyage and have confidence that their wellbeing remains a priority. Access to training, welfare support, security guidance and appropriate resources becomes particularly important when operating in regions affected by conflict or instability.
International bodies such as the IMO, ILO and ICS also have an important role to play by facilitating cooperation across the industry, promoting best practice and supporting the development of frameworks that help improve consistency in how seafarers are protected globally.
Ultimately, seafarers are at the heart of global shipping. During periods of geopolitical uncertainty, protecting their wellbeing should remain a shared responsibility across the entire maritime sector. The industry has shown throughout its history that it can adapt to new challenges, and continued collaboration will be essential to ensuring that seafarers remain safe, supported and able to perform their vital role.
This year's chosen focus of the Day of the Seafarer, 'Carrying world trade, carrying the risks', reflects a truth the industry cannot ignore: the seafarers who keep global commerce moving also shoulder the greatest burdens. When major routes are disrupted, crews face higher security risks, longer voyages, heavier workloads and extended time away from home. Ships may transport the goods that sustain economies, but it is the people onboard who absorb the human cost. As a former seafarer now working ashore, I believe we must never lose sight of their contribution. Robust crew‑welfare assessment is essential, ensuring living conditions, fatigue, wellbeing and connectivity are prioritised whilst helping organisations identify practical ways to make life at sea safer and more sustainable.
Submit a comment