01 FEBRUARY 2021
We've signed the Neptune Declaration in support of seafarers impacted by COVID-19
We’re proud to have joined more than 300 organisations in signing the Neptune Declaration on Seafarer Wellbeing and Crew Change – a commitment to work together to support seafarers impacted by global COVID-19 restrictions.
The pandemic has created an unprecedented crew change crisis, leaving hundreds of thousands of seafarers stranded at sea while working to provide essential supplies to the world. As frontline maritime industry workers on ships carrying around 90 per cent of global trade, seafarers play a vital role in ensuring the flow of the goods we all depend on.
As part of the maritime value chain, we recognise we have a shared responsibility to ensure this humanitarian crisis is resolved as soon as possible, and that seafarers are able to return home safely and on time.
The declaration outlines four main actions that need to be taken to make tangible improvements:
- Recognise seafarers as key workers and give them priority access to COVID-19 vaccines;
- Establish and implement gold standard health protocols based on existing best practice;
- Increase collaboration between ship operators and charterers to facilitate crew changes; and
- Ensure air connectivity between key maritime hubs for seafarers.
To find out more visit: https://www.globalmaritimeforum.org/neptune-declaration
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