Indian Seafarers Among The World's Most Abandoned Crew For 2nd Consecutive Year In 2024

16 Indian Seafarers are stranded aboard two vessels, forced to deal with harsh conditions and unpaid wages.

Their situation highlights a larger issue affecting the maritime industry.

According to the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), Indians are the most frequently abandoned nationality among seafarers, with 411 occurrences registered this year, surpassing the previous year’s total of 401.

The ITF has worked relentlessly to protect the rights of these abandoned workers, dealing with over 100 cases every year that affect over 1000 seafarers globally.

The two vessels, Seashine 7 and Sunshine 7, currently stranded in the UAE, are a striking reminder of this concerning practice.

Six Indian crew members on Seashine 7 face scorching temperatures without an operational air conditioner and are due over $40,000 in unpaid salaries.

Meanwhile, Sunshine 7, housing ten Indian nationals, has been without proper food or cooling systems for more than 20 months, with seafarers owing a total of $35,000.

The abandonment issue is directly linked to the abuse of Flags of Convenience (FOC), which allows ships to fly flags other than their own, often to avoid labour and tax rules.

These flags provide ship owners with anonymity while exposing seafarers to exploitation.

Sunshine 7, flying the Tanzanian flag, was deregistered in 2022, leaving its crew in limbo.

75% of the 116 vessels abandoned this year operate under FOCs, putting seafarers at risk.

Jacqueline Smith, ITF Maritime Coordinator, stressed the urgent need for effective global shipping law to protect workers’ rights and well-being.

Louis Gomes, vice president of the National Union of Seafarers of India, emphasised the desperation of Indian seafarers, who are unaware of the conditions they will encounter on board.

Some even pay to acquire positions, putting themselves in danger of exploitation in exchange for employment.

The ITF’s efforts go beyond campaigning.

It has a network of inspectors in 120 ports worldwide who ensure labour standards are followed and respond to distress calls from seafarers.

Reference: Economic Times, Deccan Herald

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