Governments, immigration, health and maritime authorities have been called upon to recognise seafarers as ‘key workers’ so they can safely return home, the International Labour Organization said on 08 June.
The ILO, a specialised agency of the United Nations, has called for the “urgent and coordinated action” to release the 150,000 to 200,000 seafarers trapped on board ships” because of measures to contain the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which is the pathogen that causes the COVID-19 disease.
The UN agency has stated that the situation is “worsening by the day” and that many seafarers are now reported to be experiencing mental health issues and physical exhaustion that is reducing their ability to safely carry out their duties.
“Forcing exhausted seafarers to continue working more than four months beyond the end of their contract is unacceptable. This jeopardizes their health and endangers maritime safety….. We call on governments to work together to make these crew changes happen in safety,” said Guy Ryder, ILO Director-General.
Focus on news that seafarers are experiencing declining mental health is particularly timely as Thursday 25 June is the International Maritime Organization-declared “Day of the Seafarer”.
The IMO, another specialised UN body, has dedicated this year’s commemoration to the concept of seafarers as key workers who are on the frontline of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Seafarers,” the IMO says, play “an essential role in maintaining the flow of vital goods such as good, medicines and medical supplies. However, the crisis has led to difficult working conditions for seafarers, including uncertainties and difficulties about port access, re-supply, crew changeovers and repatriation”.
The IMO seeks to raise awareness of the work achieved by seafarers in response to the pandemic and to thank them for their contribution.
Further details about the 2020 Day of the Seafarer can be found on the IMO website.
