The International day of the Seafarer 2020

Today we salute the un-sung heroes of the Covid-19 Pandemic, the Seafarers.   July 25th is in fact, the International day of the Seafarer and has been promoted by the IMO for the past 10 years.

 

Seafarers are currently on the front line of the Covid-19 Pandemic.  It is well-known that more than 80% of global trade is delivered by sea. This therefore means that Seafarers are working in highly demanding situations, both mentally and physically for 24/7.  Coupled to that reality, the recent global pandemic created an even more extreme challenge. This is due to the lack of medical attention workers could receive. Similarly important is the lack of rest since the operators could not operate crew-changes.

 

The goal of the International day of the Seafarer is indeed to promote the welfare, safety and international standard of competency for Seafarers’ conditions of employment.

 

In his message, IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim mentioned essential work of seafarers, which is un-like any others.  Apart from thanking seafarers he also stressed the point that “they [also] need – and deserve – quick and decisive humanitarian action from governments everywhere, not just during the pandemic, but at all times”, Mr. Lim said.

 

#SeafarersAreKeyWorkers