By Jonathan Williams, Secretary, Federation of National Associations of Ship Brokers and Agents
So, another year has passed, and it is again time to reflect on recent developments, take stock of where FONASBA is now, and look at the issues that we are addressing.
Obviously, COVID continues to dominate our actions and we remain closely engaged with colleague associations and organisations in working to convince national governments that seafarers are essential workers and to grant them leave to travel and access to vaccinations. Even after nearly two years, this message is not being heard in some countries and the difficulties remain.
One positive development from our side is the active engagement of FONASBA member associations in local vaccination programmes, working with local ship agents and healthcare providers to allow seafarers to be inoculated.
We applaud their actions in providing this vital service.
