A number of maritime and shipping organisations are becoming increasingly concerned with issues related to seafarer safety, according to a number of discussions at the recently held Capital Link Forum.

Held every February in Athens, this shipping conferences serves as a crucial platform for global dialogue on significant maritime industry challenges.

The forum, a collaborative effort with DNV and in partnership with NASDAQ and NYSE, convened global shipping leaders to address significant issues such as the safety of seafarers, decarbonisation efforts, and the broader implications of geopolitical shifts on shipping.

Discussions focused on the urgent need for industry adaptation in response to changes in energy security and global economic trends, highlighting the critical role of shipping in maintaining the global supply chain continuity.

On February 7, by far the most important topic on the agenda was how industry, and the international community, can help limit and put an end to a rise in unjust treatment and criminalisation of its seafarers.

Under the chairmanship of BIMCO President Nikolaus H Schües, the Round Table of International Shipping Associations, which includes leaders from BIMCO, the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), INTERTANKO, and INTERCARGO, convened to address these critical issues.

They stressed an alarming escalation in the mistreatment of seafarers, notably the rise in kidnappings and wrongful detentions.

Nikolaus H Schües voiced the collective concern, saying, “Throughout 2024 we have witnessed a rise in the number of kidnappings and cases of rogue detention and imprisonment of our seafarers. This is devastating and highly concerning.”

He reminded attendees that “seafarers facilitate the transport of over 80 per cent of world trade,” emphasising the vital role they play despite facing significant adversities.

“Despite the challenges they face, they continue to work to the highest professional standards, and we will work collectively towards raising awareness about seafarers lacking some of the fundamental rights that some other keyworkers enjoy,” chairpersons said.

The forum also touched upon the findings of the International Maritime Bureau, which based ona recent report saw a decrease in piracy but an increase in the number of seafarers taken hostage.

In 2024 alone, the figure rose to 126 from 73 the previous year, emphasising a critical area of concern.

In the meantime, reliable data is lacking when it comes to criminalisation and rogue detention and imprisonment of seafarers when drugs are found on board a ship.

Recently reported cases in some parts of the world, however, are testament to innocent seafarers being jailed over alleged drug offences despite lack of sufficient evidence.

They said that “Seafarers should not risk jail sentences, kidnappings or attacks while performing their essential duties”.

“Two weeks ago, we heard the news that the 25-member crew of the Galaxy Leader had been released after being kidnapped at gunpoint and held in captivity for over 430 days by the Houthis,” they added.

Addressing the collective resolve, the chairpersons said, “Unjustified deprivation of liberty and attacks on innocent seafarers are attacks on individuals, the shipping industry, supply chains, and world trade.”

“We will continue to raise awareness of the rights and treatment of our seafarers,” thus committing to a sustained effort to improve conditions for seafarers globally, the chaipersons concluded.

The conference completed with a unified commitment to fostering a safer and more equitable environment for seafarers, emphasising the essential need for continued international cooperation to effect substantial change.