International Maritime Organization (IMO), the United Nations agency responsible for regulating shipping, is addressing the issue of seafarers’ wellbeing today on Day of the Seafarer 2018.
Seafarers are the unsung heroes of shipping — an industry that everyone everywhere relies on for goods and commodities, as those at sea face tough and demanding conditions that sometimes put pressure on their mental health.
A seafarer’s job can be rewarding and fulfilling, but it can also have its more difficult moments.
Many different factors can affect the quality of life at sea.
They include shore leave, the threat of abandonment, prompt payment of wages, the prospect of criminalization and even simple things like internet access and provision of exercise facilities on board ship.
The IMO is encouraging seafarers to share their own views and experiences through an online survey.
The results of the survey will be thoroughly analyzed and presented to the IMO Council.
In addition, a new free-to-view film produced by Videotel, Seafarers' Mental Health and Wellbeing, to equip seafarers with ideas and resources that could lead them to better mental health.
In his annual Message for the Day of the Seafarer, Kitack Lim, IMO Secretary-General, said: “Day of the Seafarer 2018 provides a platform to advocate for higher standards of welfare and enable shipping companies and others within the industry to show how they provide a good working environment for seafarers and thereby make a positive contribution to their wellbeing.”
The IMO’s 2018 Day of the Seafarer campaign has also invited seafarers to share what a “#GoodDayatSea” looks like and to enter the IMO/ International Seafarers' Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN) photo competition.
The North American Maritime Ministry Association (NAMMA) has sponsored the competition.
Those wanting to support Day of the Seafarer even further can also use #SupportSeafarersWellbeing.
