Page 144 - ΝΑΥΤΙΚΑ ΧΡΟΝΙΚΑ - ΜΑΙΟΣ 2024

SEAFARERS' REPRESENTATION

❻ How can the shipping industry better ations compared to the considerable risk posed
prepare for the mounting tensions on to the safety of seafarers.
the global geopolitical landscape? In Seafarers are the beating heart of the shipping
view of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine industry, and their ability to perform their duties
conflict and the recent developments without fear for their safety is essential. The ETF
in the Red Sea, has the industry shown calls on all National and International Authorities
progress and adaptability in ensuring to assume their responsibilities and take a stand
the safety of seafarers? on the rights and protection of seafarers in the
The ETF, in a joint statement with our social part- Red Sea.
ner, the European Community Shipowners’ Asso- It was of fundamental importance that the IBF
ciation (ECSA), has expressed deep concerns over Warlike Operations Area Committee redefined the
the ongoing attacks on commercial vessels in the list of all the relevant warlike and high-risk areas,
Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. granting seafarers the right to decline an assign-
Even though the industry has demonstrated some ment in a warlike operation area without risking
progress and adaptability, and major shipping com- losing their employment or suffering any other
panies have diverted their ships through the Cape detrimental effects, to refuse to proceed through
of Good Hope, many vessels are still transiting the the Red Sea, and be entitled to repatriation at the
area. The situation continues to escalate, and the company’s cost.
absence of any lives lost or serious injuries so far While establishing a separate EU military opera-
is a mere coincidence and only a matter of luck. tion to protect shipping in the area is a positive
Shipping companies must continue to reroute step towards addressing the security challenges,
their ships until it is safe to travel the Red Sea. military operations are not expected to stop the
However, it is essential to acknowledge that this Houthis from launching attacks in the short term.
rerouting translates into additional days onboard Addressing the emerging crisis requires a holistic
on an already long journey for seafarers. approach to security in the region, providing a
The primary concern of many people in the indus- solution that guarantees the safety of shipping in
try revolves around supply chain disruptions, sky- the area in the long term. More concerted efforts
rocketing shipping prices and insurance cover- are necessary to address the root causes of the
age, and the impact of all this on the economy. crisis, including coordinated efforts and diplo-
Of course, these are all severe consequences, but matic initiatives that will contribute to maintain-
they are only secondary commercial consider- ing the freedom of navigation.

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