This 2025, the commemoration of Seafarers’ Day revolves around the #MyHarassmentFreeShip campaign, says IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez, who in his official message underlines the urgency of promoting safe, inclusive and respectful maritime working environments. With more than 1.5 million people working at sea in often demanding conditions, the IMO Secretary-General recognizes that “Seafarers form an extraordinary global workforce” and calls for action to ensure their dignity, safety and well-being.
From the leadership of IMO, Arsenio Dominguez argues that creating an environment free of violence and harassment requires more than regulations: it requires leadership with humility, patience, active listening and professionalism. In his message he emphasizes that supporting seafarers also involves demanding the best from each person, having difficult conversations when necessary, and building a culture where respect is the norm, not the exception.
The #MyHarassmentFreeShip campaign seeks to give visibility to Seafarers who have succeeded in establishing a culture of respect and responsibility on board, serving as an example that positive change is possible. At the same time, it amplifies the voices of those who have faced harassment, ensuring that their stories are heard and recognized as a fundamental part of the learning and transformation process in the sector.
In that spirit, IMO has taken a decisive step forward by pushing for the amendment of the STCW Code of Training and Certification, requiring mandatory training for all seafarers in the prevention of and response to violence and harassment. This measure strengthens the regulatory framework and represents a concrete step forward in the protection of human rights on board ships.
In addition, as part of institutional efforts, interactive platforms are being developed to connect seafarers with support networks and international best practices. IMO has also launched an Interactive World Map to highlight the complaint and protection mechanisms available by flag State, reinforcing the idea that no one should feel alone in their struggle for a safe working environment.
The Secretary General invites the entire maritime community – shipowners, governments, unions, officers and crews – to actively join this campaign. His message is clear: we are all responsible for promoting a culture of zero tolerance of harassment. Only in this way can we ensure that every person who works at sea does so with dignity, respect and the certainty that their well-being is a shared priority.
- Images courtesy of IMO | www.imo.org