Harassment and bullying on ships is a pressing issue affecting both men and women, according to South Sea Cruises Captain Melania Taliadrodro. This assertion was emphasized on Seafarers’ Day, as the captain challenged the prevalent notion that only women are targeted in these environments. She highlighted that male cadets and crew members also experience harassment, which may come not just from officers but from other departments on board.
Taliadrodro stressed the importance of recognizing that harassment transcends gender, especially within the male-dominated maritime sector. She urged all seafarers to familiarize themselves with their rights under the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006) and company policies which safeguard against various forms of abuse, including cyberbullying.
The call for a culture of respect onboard ships aligns with broader discussions about harassment in maritime settings, as highlighted in recent articles which reported similar sentiments from various advocates in the Fiji maritime community. For instance, those at the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre have previously pointed out the challenges women face, commonly involving unwelcome advances and harassment while at sea. However, the changing tides of gender representation in the industry, with more women breaking into leadership roles, presents a hopeful outlook for the future.
The “My Harassment-Free Ship” initiative launched recently aims to further this dialogue, promoting zero-tolerance policies and safe reporting channels for all seafarers. It is evident that as advocacy grows within the maritime world, there’s potential for significant progress towards safer working conditions where every individual is respected and free from bullying and harassment.
With these discussions taking place, there is hope that advocacy and improved awareness will continue to foster a more inclusive and supportive maritime environment, not just in Fiji but globally. By working collectively to address these issues, the maritime community can strive toward a future where every seafarer feels secure and valued.
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