New Films Warn Seafarers About Abandonment Risks
The Seafarers’ Charity has released the final three films about the risks of seafarer abandonment. The videos explain how to spot warning signs, protect yourself before taking a job and find help when an employer fails to provide support. Marine Insight reports.
The charity says abandonment may involve unpaid wages for two months or more, a lack of food, fuel or other basic supplies, or a shipowner leaving the crew without support. In 2025, 410 vessels were reported abandoned, affecting 6,223 seafarers. The International Transport Workers’ Federation said this was the highest number on record and more than 30% above the 2024 figure.
The “Smart Seafaring. A Safe Return” campaign began in June for the Day of the Seafarer. Its new materials cover key points from checking a job and employer before joining a vessel to dealing with unpaid wages or abandonment.
The guidance is now available in Arabic, Bahasa, Mandarin, Hindi, Russian and Tagalog. The Seafarers’ Charity is asking maritime employers, unions, training organisations and welfare groups to share the films and materials with seafarers and their families.
