Seafarer Day Focuses on Ending Shipboard Harassment

The spotlight of this year’s International Day of the Seafarer—an event backed by the United Nations—falls on the My Harassment-Free Ship initiative, which urges the maritime sector to put an end to bullying and harassment at sea.

In support of this goal, the International Maritime Organization (IMO), a UN agency, has unveiled a new online tool: an interactive map that outlines national reporting mechanisms, relevant legislation, and available support by flag state. This resource aims to give seafarers the means to seek help worldwide, while increasing transparency in how harassment is addressed across the industry.

Mandatory Training on the Horizon

As part of a broader push to create safer working environments at sea, new training regulations will come into force on January 1. These rules, set under the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) Code, will make instruction on preventing harassment—including sexual assault and sexual harassment—a compulsory part of maritime training programs.

IMO Calls for Collective Action

“IMO is taking action, and we invite all stakeholders to join us in this movement. No one should feel alone in their struggle,” said IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez, emphasizing the need for collective effort.

The interactive map, which can be explored here, serves as a key step in the campaign to provide seafarers with safe, supportive working environments free from harassment.