A group of governments from twelve countries have come together to pledge urgent action to resolve the crew change crisis that has emerged as a result of COVID-19 pandemic. In a joint statement presented Thursday during the virtual International Maritime Summit on Crew Changes, representatives from 12 countries expressed their deep concern about the current crisis and … [Read more...]
Is English the True International Language of the Sea?
In 1988 the IMO made “Seaspeak” the international language of the sea. English is the principle language base of Seaspeak because it was the most common language spoken at sea in 1988. English is also the international language in civil aviation. There are numerous factors that led to English as a common language for communication at sea. Some not nearly as relevant today … [Read more...]
ILO Adopts New Minimum Monthly Wage for Seafarers
A Subcommittee of the Joint Maritime Commission (JMC) of the International Labour Union has agreed on a Resolution raising the minimum monthly wage for seafarers. The mechanism agreed to is the only one in the International Labour Organization (ILO) that sets the basic wage for any industry. Under the Resolution, the minimum monthly basic wage figure for able seafarers … [Read more...]
First Ever Manila Statement Issued on Fair Treatment of Seafarers
A meeting was held on 13 November in Manila, between senior government representatives from Asia’s leading maritime nations regarding the treatment of seafarers. Also present at the meeting was a large cross section of the Asian and international shipping community, from ship owners and casualty investigators, to prosecutors and auditors, as well as the seafarers … [Read more...]
Study: More Than a Quarter of Seafarers Polled Reported Signs of Depression
More than a quarter of seafarers reported showing symptoms of of depression, according to a study of seafarers’ mental health presented this month during a Wellness at Sea conference this in London. The study of more than 1,000 seafarers was carried out by international maritime charity Sailors’ Society and Yale University. More than one in six of the respondents coming from … [Read more...]