As the maritime industry commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Convention on the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), the International Maritime Organization (IMO) reasserts its unwavering commitment to the safety and security of seafarers
At the end of his first month as secretary-general of IMO, Arsenio Dominguez is developing a theme of navigating the future, safety first, as the strategy for IMO.
In an hour-long briefing, Mr Dominguez elucidated how IMO plays a pivotal role in shaping a safe, secure, and sustainable future for shipping.
Through the lens of SOLAS and intertwined conventions, IMO’s strategy will centre on the human element – the seafarers themselves. The ongoing threat to navigation posed by hostilities in the Red Sea, and surge in ship abandonments, bring seafarer welfare into stark relief.
The secretary-general was forthright about the current predicament in the Red Sea, underscoring his threefold message: first, safeguarding seafarers’ safety; second, upholding the principle of freedom of navigation; and finally, de-escalating tensions through UN engagement.
With more than 80% of global trade by volume transported by sea, the presence of commercial vessels in hotspot areas like the Red Sea becomes a matter of international concern and economic continuity, he said.
Seafarers have endured hardships unimaginable to many during the Covid-19 pandemic – prolonged isolation, limited healthcare and extended periods away from family.
He noted their plight cast long shadows over a profession that is the linchpin of the global trading system.
Mr Dominguez expressed, “Just think of you and I working from home complaining we could not go out. Now compare that with seafarers... not being able to have any direct contact or assistance for nearly two years.”
IMO’s alliance with the International Labour Organization underscores its concerted approach to addressing ship abandonment and promoting seafarer rights. By enhancing maritime security via the Djibouti Code of Conduct and developing assistance plans, IMO galvanises regional co-operation and international assistance.
Mr Dominguez noted, “What is essential is the continued dialogue with member states within the region to fortify maritime safety.”
Mr Dominguez does not lay claim to the adage, "No seafarers, no shipping, no shopping", but noted it takes on a profound meaning amid the current seafaring climate.
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