IMO's ongoing work to protect and support seafarers was presented at the 67th Convention of the International Ship Suppliers and Services Association (ISSA 67).
Senior Legal Officer Mr. Jan Engel de Boer delivered a keynote presentation during the event in Singapore (15 to 18 October), focusing on IMO's comprehensive welfare framework for seafarers.
He highlighted the IMO/ILO joint database on abandonment of seafarers which was established 20 years ago in 2005 with ISSA support. The recently upgraded database contains regularly updated information on vessels with seafarers onboard that have been reported as abandoned worldwide.
"ISSA has always been a strong advocate for seafarers' welfare, especially during the crew change crisis brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic," added Mr. De Boer. "This conference was an excellent opportunity to strengthen our partnership and advance efforts to improve seafarers' welfare, working conditions, and preparedness for future global health emergencies."
The IMO/ILO welfare system for seafarers also includes:
- Guidelines on fair treatment of seafarers in the event of a maritime accident
- Guidelines on liability and compensation regarding claims for personal injury to or death of seafarers
- Guidelines on provision of financial security in case of abandonment of seafarers
- Guidelines on how to deal with seafarer abandonment cases
- Guidelines on fair treatment of seafarers detained in connection with alleged crimes
The ISSA represents nearly 2000 ship suppliers throughout the world, with 40 national associations of ship suppliers and 51 associate members.
