Charting a New Course: Prioritizing Seafarers in Maritime Progress

Image Credits: ISWAN

The maritime industry is facing some serious challenges, from the pressing need to cut down carbon emissions to the impact of geopolitical tensions on shipping routes. These issues are reshaping the everyday experiences of seafarers, making their lives at sea more complex than ever.

With a growing crisis in recruitment and retention, it’s crucial for the maritime sector to actively engage with and understand the hurdles that seafarers and their families encounter.

ISWAN has rolled out a new three-year strategic plan aimed at fostering a safe, fair, and inclusive environment within maritime workspaces. Their goal? To ensure that all seafarers enjoy rewarding careers and sustainable livelihoods.

A key part of this initiative is empowering seafarers and their families by involving them in decision-making processes. ISWAN emphasizes a thorough approach to wellbeing—addressing not just physical health but also mental, emotional, and financial aspects.

Through its helplines and casework services,ISWAN often hears from seafarers who feel overlooked when it comes to addressing their unique challenges at sea. In response to this feedback, they’re committed to amplifying these voices within the industry while advocating for solutions grounded in real-world evidence.

Simon Grainge, Chief Executive of ISWAN, shared his thoughts: “We’re dedicated to ensuring our projects reflect what seafarers truly need based on insights gathered through our helplines. Over the next three years, we’ll deepen our collaboration with active mariners and their families as we tackle these distinctive challenges head-on.”

Ambassador Nancy Karigithu from Kenya highlighted how critical it is for us not only to recognize but also protect the safety and livelihoods of those working at sea amid ongoing global conflicts. She believes that ISWAN’s holistic approach will be pivotal in creating a more diverse and humane maritime sector.

As they unveil their strategic plan for 2025-28, ISWAN invites everyone across shipping sectors—including yachting and cruise lines—to foster an atmosphere where every seafarer feels valued while having access to necessary resources during tough times at sea.

Before launching this initiative publicly, ISWAN sought input from various members within its network of seafarers about its vision.Zaldrene John Gabales—a social media influencer who works as an Able Seaman—expressed his recognition: “ISWAN’s mission resonates deeply with me because it takes practical steps towards improving mental health among us sailors. Life out there can be isolating; knowing there’s support available makes all the difference.”

Third Officer Majella Angelie Parreño-Albances echoed similar sentiments: “The increasing involvement of organizations like ISWAN shows that there’s recognition around our welfare needs beyond company policies alone.” She emphasized how vital external support is for enhancing life quality both onboard ships as well as back home.

ISWAN firmly believes that forming strategic partnerships across different sectors can help streamline efforts without redundancy while promoting knowledge sharing aimed at better outcomes for all involved parties.Tina Barnes from The Seafarers’ Charity added her perspective: “Listening directly to what sailors want helps us understand how best we can assist them.” Her institution continues funding initiatives like SeafarerHelp—a multilingual helpline designed specifically so mariners can express concerns freely while receiving tailored assistance when needed.

In summary—this new strategic direction by ISWAN aims not just at organizational growth but also envisions transformative changes throughout maritime industries focused on enhancing overall wellbeing among those who brave life on water every day.