Global Maritime Forum Launches Sustainable Crewing Guidelines

The Global Maritime Forum has introduced Sustainable Crewing Guidelines, a nine-point framework designed to improve working conditions for seafarers amid the shipping industry’s 17-year high workforce shortage. These guidelines aim to set a new benchmark for what “good” working conditions should look like onboard vessels.

Key Objectives of the Guidelines

The initiative seeks to:

• Enhance seafarer well-being by tackling issues like abuse, harassment, and isolation.

• Address labor shortages—an estimated 90,000 trained seafarers will be needed by 2026.

• Improve work-life balance through measures such as paid parental leave, better internet access, and fair contract terms.

• Encourage industry-wide adoption of best practices beyond the minimum standards set by the Maritime Labour Convention.

Findings Highlight Urgent Need for Reform

• 25% of seafarers report experiencing harassment or bullying, rising to 50% among female seafarers.

• 90% of seafarers report having no weekly day off.

• 13% of vessels globally offer no internet access, and many charge seafarers for Wi-Fi.

• Fatigue contributes to 15-20% of maritime fatalities, while human error accounts for 75-96% of incidents at sea.

Key Provisions in the Guidelines

The nine recommendations include:

1. Zero tolerance for abuse and harassment—Clear policies and reporting systems.

2. Fair task allocation and promotions—Rank-based criteria for training and appraisals.

3. Improved onboard facilities—Adequate PPE, gender-separated facilities, and hygiene products.

4. Reliable internet access—To support mental health and job satisfaction.

5. Reduced isolation—Building mentorship programs and supportive communities.

6. Flexible contracts—Fair terms with no last-minute extensions.

7. Paid parental leave—To support family life at sea.

8. Continuous feedback mechanisms—Ensuring seafarers’ voices are heard.

9. Clear expectations of respectful behavior—Fostering professionalism and inclusion.

Industry Adoption and Future Steps

The guidelines were co-developed with 12 major shipping companies, including bp Shipping, Cargill Ocean Transportation, Chevron Shipping, Stena Group, and Synergy Marine Group. They were shaped by insights from 400 seafarers over a ten-month pilot program.

Mikael Skov, CEO of Hafnia and co-chair of All Aboard Alliance, emphasized that these guidelines serve as a roadmap for companies to improve workplace conditions and retain skilled seafarers. Susanne Justesen, Director of Human Sustainability at the Global Maritime Forum, noted that the initiative encourages companies to go beyond regulatory minimums and set a higher industry standard.

The All Aboard Alliance will meet in April to discuss next steps for widespread implementation. The launch during Singapore Maritime Week underscores the industry’s growing focus on human sustainability in global shipping.