The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) has officially placed Able Maritime Seafarers Inc. on its red list due to the company’s failure to address serious concerns regarding the low pay and poor working conditions faced by seafarers it has placed in jobs. This decision comes after Able Maritime did not respond to ITF inquiries about these pressing issues, which were brought to light by the federation last month.
The ITF’s investigations have uncovered a significant number of allegations against the Philippine-based manning agent, with claims of exploitation and neglect of Filipino seafarers being particularly prevalent. In collaboration with the Philippines Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), which oversees manning agencies in the country, the ITF aims to understand the circumstances that contributed to the exploitation of these workers. The ITF is also looking into cases where Able Maritime failed to support seafarers in distress, undermining their ability to return safely home.
Steve Trowsdale, ITF Inspectorate Coordinator, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that since the ITF began raising public awareness about the plight of seafarers employed by Able Maritime—particularly in regions like Fiji and Malta, as well as on Chinese-flagged fishing boats in the Indian Ocean—over 30 families of affected seafarers have come forward. Many are seeking information on outstanding wages, with some cases involving arrears of more than seven months’ pay.
In light of these findings, the ITF has listed Able Maritime on its ITFShipBeSure.org directory as a warning to seafarers against engaging with the agency when seeking employment. This action also serves as an alert to ship operators and international regulators about the company’s practices. Trowsdale remarked that the decision to red-list Able Maritime was not made lightly; however, the overwhelming evidence of the agency’s misconduct and its refusal to engage in dialogue about remedying the situation left the ITF with no choice.
The ITF’s red-listing of Able Maritime highlights the critical need for accountability and support for seafarers, who often face exploitation and harassment in the industry. The organization continues to call for better protections and resources for these workers to ensure their rights and well-being are safeguarded.
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