Global Maritime Nations Urge Action to Safeguard Seafarer

Global Maritime Nations Urge Action to Safeguard Seafarers
Associate Editor November 27, 2025 https://maritimefairtrade.org/global-maritime-nations-urge-action-to-saf...

On a recent Tuesday, several maritime nations endorsing the Philippines convened to emphasize the urgent need for global action to safeguard the security and rights of seafarers. This call to action stemmed from a two-day meeting in Manila, where ten prominent seafaring and maritime states collectively issued a declaration. The participating nations—Bangladesh, Germany, Malaysia, Myanmar, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, the Philippines, Spain, and the United Kingdom—recognize seafarers as “key workers” crucial to the seamless functioning of international commerce and global supply chains.

In their declaration, they stressed that seafarers are essential for transporting vital goods like food, fuel, and medicines across the world’s oceans. Despite the document’s non-binding nature, Philippine Ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva, Carlos Sorreta, indicated a commitment to garner wider support for the initiative. He noted that Manila would strive for greater adherence to the declaration.

The Declaration underscores the need for enhanced social dialogue, robust enforcement of existing protections, and cooperation among stakeholders to address the myriad challenges faced by seafarers. It outlines a comprehensive view that in the face of evolving global crises—such as public health emergencies, natural disasters, and piracy—protecting seafarers is not just a logical imperative but also a human rights obligation.

Seafarers often confront various dangers, including piracy and kidnappings, particularly concerning Filipino sailors who face heightened risks in regions like Africa. The Philippine government has struggled to ensure the safety of its seafaring personnel, especially highlighted by the uncertain fate of several Filipino crew members from the MV Eternity, allegedly taken hostage by Houthi rebels from Yemen last July.

As one of the largest suppliers of maritime labor globally, the Philippines contributes over 20 percent of the world’s seafarers, who serve on oil tankers, cargo ships, luxury liners, and passenger vessels. The risks faced by these individuals necessitate urgent governmental and maritime organizational actions to guarantee their safety and rights.

Teodoro Locsin, the Philippine Ambassador to the UK and the country’s permanent representative to the International Maritime Organization, underscored the urgent need for states to complement their declarations with concrete actions. He stated that the extraordinary individuals who navigate the world’s waters deserve full commitments to their human rights and safety, emphasizing the dignity inherent in the essential services they provide.

In summary, the joint declaration from these maritime nations highlights the critical role of seafarers in global trade and the need for urgent international cooperation to ensure their protection and well-being in the face of evolving risks and challenges.