The human element

Seafarers are the driving force of maritime transport. Without the necessary numbers of qualified seafarers, the industry cannot deliver its strategic services. In addition, more coordinated work is needed to enhance the image of maritime careers in order to attract young talent to the industry.

The industry’s energy transition, with major changes in ship systems and equipment, new fuels and emerging technologies, cannot take place without adequately trained personnel, both on board ships and ashore. A prerequisite and overarching principle must always be the safety of seafarers, the safety of life at sea, under any circumstances.

The ongoing revision of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers at the IMO takes into account not only the technical skills and competencies of seafarers, but also soft skills and well-being aspects. The industry solidly supports the ratification of the Maritime Labour Convention, which regulates living and working conditions on board with more than 100 countries having ratified it to date. Both these global instruments uphold critical labour and training standards. 

Coordinated action to attract young talent to the industry and the update of the global framework for seafarers’ training are essential for the shipping industry’s continued growth, in the era of energy transition.