Next Thursday is the U.N. recognised “Day of the Seafarer”. The day highlights the hardship, pressures, and risks of life at sea, especially in conflict-afflicted areas.
The recent Middle East conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran, is a prime example as the conflict saw 46 vessels attacked with the loss of 14 seafarer lives.
IMO Secretary General, Arsenio Dominguez, commented: “On the day of the seafarer, we recognize the millions of seafarers around the world who keep global trade moving every single day. Behind everything we rely on, from food, fuel, medicine, and everyday goods, are people working at sea, often far from home and family.
“This year’s theme, “Carrying the world trade, carrying the risks”, feels especially significant. Across the world, too many seafarers are sailing through areas affected by conflict in geopolitical tension. Many face long periods at sea, uncertainty about when they will return home, and limited communications with their families, all while operating in dangerous waters.
“To all seafarers, thank you. It may not always seem like that, but let me reiterate, your safety and welfare remain our highest priority… to everyone else, take a moment… to recognise the people behind global trade, the seafarers who keep the world moving”.
