The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) has accused several flag states of obstructing efforts to resolve cases of abandoned ships and their crews, reports Tradewinds.
ITF’s Assessment
The ITF has highlighted a concerning practice where flag states withdraw the flag of a vessel during the processing of an abandonment case. This practice, as outlined in the ITF’s Fair Treatment of Seafarers report, undermines the crucial role flag states should play in resolving abandonment incidents. Withdrawing the flag before a case is resolved leaves the crew without vital support and assistance.
The ITF report did not disclose the specific flag states involved in these instances. The report also revealed instances where flag changes occurred during active abandonment situations, which is equally unacceptable. Alarmingly, the ITF reported 20 cases in 2024 where the vessel had no flag or the flag could not be identified. These findings underscore the importance of flag state responsibility in ensuring the welfare and protection of seafarers in cases of abandonment.
Flag State Withdrawals
Steve Trowsdale, ITF global inspectorate coordinator, emphasized the significant challenges posed by flag state withdrawals during abandonment cases.
He explained that these actions hinder the ITF’s efforts to assist seafarers by creating uncertainty and hindering the identification of responsible parties. Trowsdale highlighted instances where seafarers reported being unable to identify their vessel’s flag or access insurance documents, further complicating the situation.
He also criticized flag states that fail to fulfill their responsibilities, stating that some “don’t want to respond, don’t want to act, and don’t want to stand up to their responsibilities.” The report further revealed instances of vessels flying false flags, including cases involving flags of Sao Tome and Principe and Guyana. The report emphasized the widespread nature of the issue, with abandonment cases reported on 45 different flags, the highest number ever recorded.
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Source: TradeWinds
