The Human Element: A Key Factor οf Seaborne Trade

The COVID-19 pandemic brought vividly to the fore the importance of the human element in shipping. During this period, seafarers contributed immensely to the uninterrupted continuation of global maritime trade, without, however, the necessary and due acknowledgement by the international community. Seafarers’ role as key workers and unsung heroes during severely adverse global trading conditions must be recognised with concrete measures.

Their role must also be highlighted in the context of the training needs created by the new technological developments and innovations taking place in the fight against climate change. Digitalisation of ship systems, automation and a complex international legal framework being developed to adapt shipping to environmental objectives, demand skilled professionals. At the IMO, a comprehensive review of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) is underway to ensure that the Convention corresponds successfully to the current and future needs of ships and seafarers.