Stranded seafarers are resorting to self-harm and even suicide as relevant authorities fail to heed calls from the International Labour Organization (ILO) for urgent and coordinated action to release the 150 000 to 200 000 crew trapped on board ships around the world because of measures to contain the Covid-19 virus.
The ILO has for some time urged governments, immigration, health and maritime authorities to work together to recognise seafarers as ‘key workers’ who ensure the flow of trade and the movement of vital medical supplies, safety equipment, food and other critical goods during the pandemic.
More than a month after the ILO issued warnings, at the end of April, about the plight of seafarers refused permission to leave their ships, limited progress has been achieved and, according to the ILO, the situation is worsening by the day.
Many of those on board completed their tours of duty more than four months ago but with contracts extended because of the crisis, many are now reported to be experiencing mental health issues and physical exhaustion, which is reducing their ability to carry out their duties safely.
Meanwhile, the restrictions on crew changes, brought in by countries to reduce the spread of Covid-19, have meant that seafarers waiting to return to sea have lost their income.
The call for key worker status for seafarers was underlined in a joint statement issued on 22 May by the International Civil Aviation Organization (Icao), International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the ILO.
This would exempt crew from travel restrictions and facilitate their joining or leaving ships.
