Maritime industry celebrates International Day of Seafarer

The global maritime community celebrated the Day of the Seafarer last June 25, 2025 with a bold initiative of promoting harassment-free ships.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) launched the campaign “My Harassment-Free Ship” to promote a culture of respect and zero tolerance for bullying and harassment at sea.

IMO said in its official website that the campaign aims to raise awareness about the reality of harassment at sea, promote proactive industry action to implement zero-tolerance policies, encourage reporting and accountability through safe and accessible channels, and equip seafarers with resources and support to navigate and combat harassment.

“Seafarers form a remarkable global workforce that calls ships their place of work. It is a unique, exciting and demanding environment, one that must be free from violence and harassment,” said IMO Secretary General Arsenio Dominguez in an official statement.

“As Secretary General, steering the IMO ship, I know that leadership is vital to creating a safe, inclusive and respectful working environment for all. It is about humility, patience, listening, positivity, respect and professionalism, while also holding people accountable, supporting them whilst demanding their best and having the difficult conversations when necessary.

“The ‘My Harassment-Free Ship’ campaign aims to shine a light on what we can all do to foster a culture of zero tolerance. We will highlight seafarers who have successfully cultivated cultures of respect and accountability on board. We will also amplify the voices of those who have dealt with harassment, learning from their stories and ensuring they are heard,” Dominguez said.

He added the IMO is also taking a decisive step to amend the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) for Seafarers Code, mandating training for all seafarers on preventing and addressing violence and harassment. We are developing interactive platforms to connect seafarers with best practices and support networks from around the globe.

“No one should feel alone in their struggle. I invite you all to join me in supporting the ‘My Harassment-Free ship’ campaign, foster a culture of zero tolerance on ships where respect, safety and inclusivity are the standard and where every individual working at sea can do so with dignity and security.”

In 2010, the IMO designated June 25 as the International Day of the Seafarer to recognize the significance of sea transport in the everyday lives of people. It is also meant to appreciate seafarers for their contribution to the world economy and the civil society; and for the risks and personal costs they bear while on their jobs.

Sonia Malaluan, administrators of Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), said, “Harassment has no place on board. Every Filipino seafarer deserves a workplace that is safe, fair and free from fear. This is not a privilege, it is your right. And at Marina we are committed to making this a lived reality.”