Secretary General António Guterres highlighted both their important role, as well as the challenges they face, in his message to mark Seafarers’ Day on Saturday.
“The world relies on seafarers,” he said.
“Ships carry a substantial 90% of the world’s goods – from grains and energy, to consumer goods and more. Without ships and the women and men working on them, economies would stagnate and people would starve.”
Pandemic challenges
However, seafarers were faced with great challenges comes from COVID-19 pandemic.
The head of the United Nations listed some of these issues, including contracts extending beyond the maximum length of service, and issues related to vaccinations, medical care and disembarkation. edge.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) continues to support seafarers during the pandemic by calling on countries appoint them as main workers.
Kitack Lim, IMO Secretary General, stated that without the crew, there would be no transportation.
Share your journey
The theme of this year’s international day, he said, is to celebrate maritime voyages and voyages, providing an opportunity to “recognize and honor seafarers everywhere, regardless of their voyages”.
As part of the IMO campaign, seafarers around the globe are using social media to share images and information about what really resonates with them, whether positive or negative. extreme or difficult situation.
“The shipping and calling of the ocean form a way of life,” said Lim. “It is an important, meaningful career that provides a solid foundation for life and provides countless opportunities to learn and progress. “
A greener future
International Day is also an opportunity to look to the future, and for the Secretary-General of the United Nations, this means listening to seafarers.
“They understand better than anyone what their needs are and what the industry needs to do to address key challenges. This includes expanding social protection, better working conditions, addressing the crew change crisis, adopting new digital tools to increase safety and efficiency, and making make the industry greener and more sustainable,” he said.
The United Nations chief concluded his message by calling for a renewed commitment to supporting seafarers everywhere, while celebrating their knowledge, professionalism and experience.
