International Day of the Seafarer 2025; June 25th.

FORUM: "My Harassment-Free Ship." International Day of the Seafarer 2025. It's time to create a Safer Workplace for Seafarers. Seafarers are the backbone of global trade, yet many face bullying, harassment, and discrimination, with studies showing that over 50% of female seafarers and a significant number of male seafarers have experienced harassment at sea that threaten their safety, mental well-being, and career progression. The maritime industry must take decisive action to foster workplaces that are safe, inclusive, and harassment-free. Harassment affects seafarers of all genders and ranks, leading to emotional distress and career setbacks. Many incidents go unreported due to fear of retaliation and lack of trust in reporting systems. Stronger policies, leadership training, and global collaboration are needed to ensure real change.You can contribute by sharing experiences and insights on building a culture of respect at sea; By highlighting best practices and company initiatives that promote inclusivity; By encouraging open discussions and accountability across the industry.We encourage seafarers, industry professionals, and organisations to share their pledge for a harassment-free workplace using the hashtag #MyHarassmentFreeShip, #Dayoftheseafarer, #25june.

EVENTS: On June 25th, the global maritime community comes together to celebrate the International Day of the Seafarer 2025. This year, we launched the campaign 'My Harassment-Free Ship', a bold initiative to promote a culture of respect and zero tolerance for bullying and harassment at sea. The Day of the Seafarer 2025 is more than a celebration—it’s a call for action. 'My Harassment-Free Ship' is about changing the maritime culture to one where every seafarer feels safe, valued, and protected at sea. Let's Build a Future of Respect at Sea. Join us in making every ship a harassment-free workplace. Together, we can create a safer maritime industry. Register to participate!

United Nations Secretary-General on the International Day of Seafarers 2025 June 25th.


"Seafarers keep global trade flowing – delivering food, medicine, and vital goods around the world. Their work is essential to our lives and economies.

Yet too often, their rights are denied, and their safety is put at risk.

This year, we shine a light on harassment and discrimination faced by many seafarers, including women, young workers and those in isolated or vulnerable conditions.

Zero-tolerance policies and inclusive workplace cultures that support the mental health of seafarers are essential. So, too, is coordinated action – among governments, industry and workers – to uphold labour standards and ensure safe, fair and humane conditions at sea.

On this International Day of the Seafarer, let us commit to a maritime sector anchored in equality, respect and dignity."

António Guterres, United Nations Secretary-General.

Statement from IMO Secretary-General on the International Day of Seafarers 2025 June 25th.

 "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. 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. This year's Day of the Seafarers will launch the ‘My Harassment-Free Ship’ campaign, which 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. IMO is also doing its part. We have taken a decisive step to amend the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping 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."

Arsenio Dominguez,IMO Secretary-General.

CAMPAIGN :Emphasising the need for industry-wide commitment to eliminating harassment and fostering safer workplaces.

TAKE ACTION !

• Action for the Seafarers: Share your stories and be part of the movement.
• Action for the Shipping Companies: Strengthen policies and onboard training.
• Action for the Maritime Organizations: Support and advocate for seafarers’ rights.

 

This campaign seeks to Raise awareness about the reality of harassment at sea; To Promote proactive industry action to implement zero-tolerance policies; To Encourage reporting and accountability through safe and accessible channels and To Equip seafarers with resources and support to navigate and combat harassment.

A key feature of this year's campaign is the launch of an Interactive World Map, which highlight resources available by flag state to support seafarers in reporting and addressing harassment at sea. This tool provides Vital information on policies, support systems, and reporting mechanisms, empowering seafarers to seek help wherever they are in the world. Click on the map to discover all the resources.

Seafarer Social Media Influencer Videos: This year, we are leveraging the voices of seafarer social media influencers, including experienced maritime vloggers, industry advocates, and crew members with significant online followings from around the world to spread awareness directly to seafarers. Through video messages and social media engagement, seafarers will hear from their peers about the importance of fostering a harassment-free workplace and how they can take part in this movement. These videos will be widely shared across platforms to ensure maximum reach and engagement.

Campaign materials: As in previous years, the campaign will be centred on social media so join us on any of IMO's social media platforms; X, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. Everyone is invited in using our campaign logo, posters and any available visual branding. Please find our digital board available here.