In a significant initiative aimed at enhancing seafarer welfare, the Merchant Navy Welfare Board (MNWB) of India and the Global Seafarers Organisation (GSWO) Joint Action Committee have launched the “My Harassment-Free Ship” campaign as part of the IMO Day of the Seafarer 2025. This campaign is dedicated to fostering a harassment-free working environment for seafarers and aligns with the global theme set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The IMO Secretary-General, Arsenio Dominguez, has called for maritime welfare organizations to actively promote seafarers’ rights, a directive that MNWB and GSWO have embraced through this coordinated effort across all Indian ports.
As part of the campaign, welfare officers from the MNWB-GSWO Joint Action Committee will engage with seafarers aboard vessels, educating them about their rights, raising awareness among crew members and management, and advocating for a zero-tolerance policy against harassment. Authorities such as Port Welfare Committees and State Maritime Boards have been invited to actively implement and enforce the IMO campaign across port facilities.
The campaign was officially launched at Indian ports by Dr. N. Reuben Paul, the Chairman of the MNWB, who worked closely with port officials to ensure effective regional implementation. Capt. Dharma Sastha, Port Officer of the Andhra Pradesh Maritime Board, inaugurated the campaign at Kakinada Port, emphasizing the importance of crew safety and welfare.
In a key development, Dr. Paul had discussions with prominent shipping officials, including Shri Ajith Kumar Sukumaran, Chief Surveyor & Additional Director General of Shipping, and Capt. Dr. Daniel Joseph, Deputy Director General of Shipping for the Government of India. The national rollout of the campaign was accompanied by discussions on the regulatory enforcement of seafarer welfare.
Dr. Paul urged the Directorate General of Shipping to direct Port State Control (PSC) officers to conduct targeted inspections related to harassment violations and ensure compliance with anti-harassment policies stipulated in the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC). Additionally, he highlighted the necessity of educating seafarers about their rights and the importance of confidential reporting mechanisms. Accountability for company leadership, Designated Persons Ashore (DPAs), and crew managers in cases of negligence was also emphasized.
MNWB’s helpline data indicated a disturbing trend: many seafarers fear repercussions such as blacklisting or job loss if they report abuse. This has led to psychological trauma and in some cases, has forced seafarers out of their careers. The campaign seeks to dismantle these barriers and create a supportive environment that encourages reporting and addresses issues promptly.
Capt. Daniel Joseph reinforced the critical nature of the campaign, stating that a strict no-harassment policy should be enforced universally across all maritime operations, highlighting that seafarer welfare is a collective responsibility and a priority within the global maritime community.
In conclusion, this united effort illustrates India’s commitment to leading the movement for the protection, safety, and dignity of seafarers, contributing positively to the establishment of a more inclusive and equitable maritime industry.
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