Today is the 'Day of the Seafarer,' observed internationally each year on June 25, providing an opportunity to recognise the essential role of seafarers in global trade and the risks they bear in sustaining it.
This year, the International Maritime Agency of the United Nations (IMO) is highlighting the challenges faced by mariners who navigate through regions affected by conflict and insecurity. This includes the risks they take and the resilience they demonstrate in keeping world trade moving under difficult circumstances.
Under the theme "Carrying world trade. Carrying the Risks, the Day of the Seafarer campaign is intended to serve as a reminder that seafarers "must never become collateral victims of geopolitical conflicts according to the IMO."
Its Secretary-General , Arsenio Dominguez, underscored his appreciation for the 1.8 million men and women who work at sea. In a video message, he said:
"To all seafarers: thank you. Your work is essential to the functioning of the global economy and the daily lives of people around the world. While it may not always seem visible, your safety, security and welfare remain our highest priority."
He invited the global maritime community and all online audiences to join IMO's campaign to spotlight the unseen contribution of seafarers, while acknowledging the risks, sacrifices and personal challenges that are part of life at sea.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said:
“When nations clash, seafarers are often caught in the crossfire. Recent events in the Strait of Hormuz have seen tens of thousands of seafarers stranded as they work far from home to keep the world fuelled and fed… Mariners must never be the victims or pawns of geopolitical conflict.”
IMO is currently working alongside Member States and industry to evacuate seafarers and ships stuck in the Persian Gulf, following attacks on shipping in and around the Strait of Hormuz. Ireland is a member of the IMO, but there are no official Government recognition ceremonies.
