This year the annual Day of the Seafarer celebrates its 10th anniversary today, 25th June 2020.
Message from Interorient Shipmanagement Managing Director, Captain Maurice Baker to all seafarers:
“Seafarers Day this year has been like no other day in any previous year. Whilst we are all aware of the invaluable contribution you, the seafarers make to the world economy and our everyday lives, the Covid-19 pandemic has brought your significant importance to the forefront of everyone’s minds unlike any other time
in the past. Our hearts and minds are with you wherever you are. We are proud of you, we appreciate you and we thank you”.
2020 campaign – Seafarers are Key Workers
Seafarers are on the frontline of the COVID-19 pandemic, playing an essential role in maintaining the flow of vital goods, such as food, medicines and medical supplies. However, the crisis has led to difficult working conditions for seafarers, including uncertainties and difficulties about port access, re-supply, crew changeovers and repatriation.
This year, the Day of the Seafarer campaign calls on Member States to recognise seafarers as key workers and to provide them with the support, assistance and travel options open to all key workers during the pandemic.
The 2020 Day of the Seafarer campaign pays tribute to seafarers, acknowledging their sacrifice and the issues they face. Many seafarers have been away from home for months and are unsure when they will be able to return home due to travel restrictions.
The campaign also seeks to raise awareness of the work achieved by seafarers in response to the pandemic and to thank them for their contribution. Everyone is invited to recognise that the ability of seafarers to deliver vital goods is central to responding to, and eventually overcoming, this pandemic.
The campaign encourages everyone to treat seafarers with the respect and dignity they deserve so that they can continue to provide their vital services to keep world trade moving.
The 2020 campaign hashtag is: #SeafarersAreKeyWorkers
Source: IMO
