On the International Day of the Seafarer (25 June), the International Maritime Organization (IMO) is calling for urgent global support and protection for the world’s 1.8 million mariners.
This year’s campaign, themed “Carrying world trade. Carrying the risks,” shines a spotlight on the escalating dangers seafarers face due to heightened geopolitical tensions in critical waterways, including the Strait of Hormuz, the Black Sea, the Sea of Azov, and the Red Sea.
As conflicts increasingly spill into international shipping lanes, mariners are facing unprecedented risks to keep global supply chains moving. The IMO emphasizes a strict mandate: seafarers must never become collateral victims or pawns of geopolitical conflicts.
“To all seafarers: thank you. Your work is essential to the functioning of the global economy and the daily lives of people around the world. While it may not always seem visible, your safety, security and welfare remain our highest priority,” said Arsenio Dominguez, IMO Secretary-General
Critical challenges facing today’s seafarers:
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Caught in the Crossfire: Recent hostilities have left tens of thousands of mariners stranded far from home, navigating active conflict zones to ensure the world remains fueled and fed.
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Active Evacuation Efforts: Following recent targeted attacks on commercial shipping in and around the Strait of Hormuz, the IMO is actively collaborating with Member States and industry partners to safely evacuate stranded crews and vessels.
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Unseen Sacrifices: Beyond physical safety risks, seafarers endure intense personal challenges, isolation, and prolonged stress to maintain the flow of global commerce.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres joined the call for heightened maritime safety, stating, “When nations clash, seafarers are often caught in the crossfire… Mariners must never be the victims or pawns of geopolitical conflict.”
The IMO invites the global maritime community, industry stakeholders, and the public to join the #DayOfTheSeafarer campaign online. By sharing stories and recognizing the resilience of these essential workers, the campaign aims to ensure that the safety and well-being of mariners remain at the forefront of international policy.
