Photo Credit: https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2025/03/20/2429839/seafarers-seek-sc-ruling-against-new-discriminatory-bond-requirement
InterManager Urges Fair Treatment of Seafarers, Supports IMO’s “My Harassment‑Free Ship” Initiative
As the International Maritime Organization prepares to mark the Day of the Seafarer on June 25, InterManager, the global ship management association, has sounded a firm warning against the criminalization of seafarers without proper evidence. In a statement issued June 23, InterManager emphasized that crew members must not be prosecuted simply for being aboard a vessel involved in an incident unless there is clear proof of individual responsibility.
InterManager Secretary General Captain Kuba Szymanski described it as “unacceptable” that seafarers face criminal charges when they are not personally at fault. Incidents such as marine pollution, port accidents, collisions, or detections of illicit cargo often lead to legal scrutiny, but too frequently result in convictions without evidence of wrongdoing. The International Transport Workers’ Federation concurs, noting that seafarers are “often unfairly blamed and convicted” even when innocent.
This stance aligns with the theme of this year’s IMO campaign, “My Harassment‑Free Ship,” which seeks to eradicate bullying, harassment, and scapegoating on board. InterManager strongly advocates that harassment at sea constitutes a serious safety risk and demands robust enforcement of regulations, not merely symbolic pledges.
In pursuit of greater accountability and fairness, InterManager has been actively compiling data on seafarer criminalization, enclosed space fatalities, and lifeboat safety, leveraging its status as an NGO at the IMO to inform regulatory discussions. Their research highlights a disturbing global uptick in crew detentions—particularly affecting senior officers—across incidents ranging from drug discovery to alleged pollution.
Captain Szymanski concluded by reinforcing the importance of safeguarding seafarers’ physical and mental welfare, declaring: “Seafarers are the lifeblood of our industry, but they should never pay with their lives for our trade” .
This call to action underscores several critical points. First, ensuring fair legal treatment for seafarers upholds both justice and international maritime law. Second, reducing undue prosecutions alleviates the mental strain on crews already operating in high-pressure, isolated environments. Third, bolstering a respectful onboard culture reduces distractions and promotes safety. Lastly, in an industry central to global supply chains, protecting seafarers fosters stability in maritime logistics.
Maritime stakeholders can take concrete steps to uphold these standards:
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Governments and regulatory bodies should establish clear protocols that ensure evidence-based prosecution and due process.
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Shipping companies and flag states must integrate fair treatment policies into their contracts, training, and incident management systems.
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Industry organizations should enhance reporting and legal support mechanisms to aid seafarers facing investigations.
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Shipping companies can amplify support for “My Harassment‑Free Ship” by adopting zero-tolerance anti-harassment policies, conducting mandatory training, and promoting respectful leadership.
As we observe the Day of the Seafarer, the maritime community is called to renew its commitment to fairness, dignity and respect. Eliminating scapegoating and harassment, while ensuring legal protections, not only honors the contributions of seafarers but builds a safer, more humane maritime workplace for all.
