Should seafarer Be Acknowledged as Key Player in Maritime Industry ?

Arguments In Favor (Support of IMO’s Resolution)

1. Crucial to International Commerce

• Over 90% of global trade is transported via maritime routes.
• Maritime workers form the foundation of worldwide supply networks—without their presence, store shelves go bare, and economies falter.

2. Sacrifices During the Pandemic

• Throughout COVID-19, many crew members found themselves stranded at sea for extended periods beyond their contracts.
• They faced restrictions on shore leave, medical assistance, and crew rotations—yet continued to ensure trade remained uninterrupted.

3. Humanitarian Recognition

• Designating them as essential workers offers legal and diplomatic backing for their movement, repatriation, and access to healthcare.
• It safeguards their mental well-being and rights during crises.

4. Promotes Government Accountability

• It encourages countries to adhere to IMO guidelines (e.g., facilitate crew rotations, permit port entry).
• This enhances the safety and dignity of seafarers on a global scale.

 ❌ Arguments Against (Opposition or Concerns)

1. More Symbolic than Functional

• Numerous nations disregarded the classification, persisting with restrictions and bureaucratic hurdles.
• Some view it as “too little, too late,” lacking any enforcement authority.

2. Disparity in Treatment

• Not all maritime workers gained advantages—certain nationalities or vessels were still denied access, highlighting flaws in global maritime governance.

3. Essential Worker ≠ Improved Conditions

• Recognition did not automatically translate to increased wages, improved contracts, or lessened work-related stress.
• Critics maintain that seafarers remain undervalued despite the designation.

4. Absence of Enforcement Mechanisms

• The IMO can suggest but cannot impose.
• In the absence of worldwide agreement, the title may have limited influence on policy adjustments.

🎯 Concluding Thoughts

The IMO’s action was a positive move, acknowledging a profession that has long been neglected despite its pivotal role in global infrastructure. However, meaningful change hinges on the actions of nations and shipping companies in response to this classification.