Today, Fiji joins the global community in commemorating the Day of the Seafarer 2025, themed ‘My Harassment-Free Ship.’ This year’s celebration is a significant call to transform the maritime culture, ensuring that every seafarer feels safe, valued, and protected while at sea.
The “My Harassment-Free Ship” initiative aims to address the pressing issue of harassment faced by seafarers by raising awareness about its prevalence, promoting zero-tolerance policies within the industry, and encouraging the establishment of safe reporting channels. Seafarers, who contribute immensely to global trade, deserve a work environment free from violence and harassment—a notion underscored by United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, who emphasized the importance of safeguarding their rights and safety.
Guterres highlighted the grim reality that many seafarers encounter discrimination and harassment, particularly women and young workers. He underscored the need for a collective commitment among governments, industry leaders, and workers to uphold labor standards, ensuring that maritime workplaces foster equality, respect, and dignity.
Supporting this initiative, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) reported that a significant number of seafarers have faced bullying and harassment at sea, which can threaten their safety and well-being. According to their studies, over 50% of female seafarers have experienced harassment, necessitating urgent action from the maritime industry to create safer and more inclusive working conditions.
Arsenio Dominguez, the IMO secretary-general, echoed these sentiments, advocating for an industry transformation that prioritizes safe workplaces devoid of harassment. He urged all stakeholders to work together to enhance mental health support and equitable working conditions for seafarers.
As the maritime sector navigates the complexities of modern challenges, including safety regulations and environmental sustainability, it is essential to prioritize the welfare of seafarers. The Day of the Seafarer serves as a crucial reminder of the vital role of the maritime workforce, advocating for the changes necessary to protect those who keep global trade flowing.
Fiji’s active participation in this global campaign is an opportunity to engage more deeply with maritime issues, raise awareness among the community, and foster an environment where every seafarer can thrive without fear of harassment.
This initiative not only underscores the importance of safety and inclusivity within maritime practice but also invites us to appreciate the dedication and resilience of seafarers, who are often the unsung heroes of global trade. Let’s commit to creating a supportive and thriving maritime culture.
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