Sailing Towards Equality: A Call for Safer Seas and Health Rights for Seafarers

An official from the Reproductive and Family Health Association of Fiji (RFHAF) has made an impassioned call for a safer and more inclusive future for the maritime industry, emphasizing the importance of sexual and reproductive rights. Sera Ratu, the program manager, addressed the World Seafarers Day celebrations in Suva, asserting that the dream of a harassment-free ship must include essential access to sexual and reproductive health services for all seafarers, both men and women.

Ratu highlighted the unique challenges that seafarers face in accessing healthcare, including crucial information and counseling regarding HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. She pointed out that the mobile and isolated nature of their jobs increases their vulnerability, and they must not be overlooked when it comes to healthcare access.

“Harassment and discrimination can exacerbate these challenges, making it hard for seafarers to seek help or report incidents,” she said. Ratu stressed that ensuring sexual and reproductive health rights is not merely a moral obligation but essential for the long-term success and sustainability of the maritime industry.

She called for commitment and concrete actions to prevent harassment and foster a supportive environment where all seafarers feel secure and have access to the services they require. This aligns with the broader international effort represented by the “My Harassment-Free Ship” initiative, aimed at transforming maritime culture into one that values safety, respect, and equality for all seafarers.

The importance of this call for a safer maritime workplace is underscored by earlier studies indicating that many seafarers, particularly women, experience harassment while at sea. With the growing acknowledgement of these pressing issues, there is a hopeful outlook for changes that can create a culture of safety and mutual respect in the maritime industry.

In essence, the ongoing advocacy for better healthcare access and the elimination of harassment within the maritime sector not only enhances the well-being of individual seafarers but also strengthens the foundation of the industry as a whole, paving the way for a more inclusive and supportive environment moving forward.