Day of the Seafarer 2022

Today marks the twelfth annual International Day of the Seafarer. Awareness of the challenges faced by seafarers has improved dramatically over the past decade. However, this year, more than ever before, we should be showing our appreciation, gratitude and full support for these key workers who continue to navigate increasingly treacherous waters and a complex global landscape

The challenges faced by seafarers throughout the Covid-19 pandemic and the current Ukraine crisis are extraordinary. The contribution of the 1.8m strong workforce cannot be underestimated but also the toll on its mental and physical health.

Globally differing Covid-19 mitigation policies, isolation and vaccine mandates have forced many seafarers to remain on board their vessels for disquieting lengths of time. They have been deprived of adequate medical care and have not been able to make contact with their families. The current geopolitical crises are profoundly altering the lives and livelihoods of Ukrainian and Russian seafarers and their families. All of this hasn't only resulted in feelings of isolation and disconnect but also presented practical difficulties, such as the expiry of qualifications due to the inability to access classroom learning.

Over the past year, the maritime industry has taken a deep dive into crew welfare and mental health. We have seen providers such as Future Care being brought on board to enable seafarers to contact maritime physicians directly for advice while at sea. There has also been closer collaboration with not-for-profit organisations such as The Mission to Seafarers, who are dedicated to crew welfare. We are seeing the industry channelling resources into training those on board to spot the signs of mental distress and provide the necessary support in time.

The expiry of certifications onboard has forced the industry to look into and invest in digital learning. A step which is also vital to develop and reskill crews to be able to operate in the new digital world. By allowing seafarers to continue their learning onboard the industry is also supporting the seafarers' mental health and personal development goals.

Without a shadow of a doubt, it has been a year like no other for crews globally, but as always, seafarers across the world will not only endure but prevail.

One thing I love about working at Mintra is the ability to continue advocating for the causes that are truly important to the shipping industry. Crew welfare is vital for the industry and should remain a priority. Please join our virtual event where my colleagues Maria Synnou and Jorunn Eldøy as well as Dr Diskin from Future Care Inc. and Reverand Mark Lawson-Jones from The Mission to Seafarers will be speaking on this crucial topic.