Joint ILO/IMO Tripartite Working Group (JTWG) to identify and address seafarersʹ issues and the human element - Opening remarks
ADDRESS OF THE SECRETARY-GENERAL AT THE OPENING OF THE SECOND MEETING OF THE JOINT ILO/IMO TRIPARTITE WORKING GROUP (JTWG) TO IDENTIFY AND ADDRESS SEAFARERSʹ ISSUES AND THE HUMAN ELEMENT, 27 to 29 February 2024
Delivered by IMO Secretary-General, Mr. Arsenio Dominguez on 27 February 2024
Good morning distinguished Representatives, Observers, ILO and IMO Colleagues, Ladies and Gentlemen,
I am pleased to welcome you all to the second meeting of the joint ILO/IMO Tripartite Working Group (JTWG) to identify and address seafarersʹ issues and the human element. Noting this is a joint meeting of two UN specialized agencies, it is my pleasure to be working with Mr. Frank Hagemann, the Director of the ILO Sectoral Policies Department, who will also address you shortly.
The work of IMO revolves around human life to a significant extent. We are here today, with a profound sense of duty and unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of seafarers. Their resilience and sacrifice have been especially evident amidst the challenges they have faced in recent times.
Our mission to safeguard human life at sea takes on particular significance against the backdrop of the situation in the Red Sea, emphasizing the imperative for collective action to fortify the safety of those who serve at sea. International trade depends on international shipping and seafarers. Attacking international shipping is first and foremost attacking seafarers. I particularly urge the immediate release of the Galaxy Leader and its crew.
I reiterate my firm belief in upholding the principle of freedom of navigation. I join the calls for caution and restraint to avoid further escalation of the situation.
As IMO continues to contribute to enhancing the safety of seafarers and the resilience of the maritime transport chain, we remain steadfast in our commitment to creating a safe and respectful working environment on board. Recognizing that this is not only a moral imperative but also a practical necessity for the industry's sustainable growth, we are committed to preventing and combatting bullying and harassment in the maritime sector, in collaboration with Member States, partners from the industry and UN agencies.
Our relationship with ILO underscores our joint commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by the professionals of the maritime sector. Our shared goal is clear — to meet the expectations of seafarers, the industry, Administrations, and the public at large in making shipping free of any form of aggression. It is an expectation we must meet not only to enhance the well-being of those who serve at sea, but also to ensure the public's confidence in the maritime sector as a safe work environment.
Distinguished delegates,
I acknowledge the busy schedule ahead of you over the next three days.
I would encourage you, through the tripartite mechanism, to reach consensus within Governments, Seafarers and Shipowners on recommendations that will pave the way for coordinated and comprehensive actions by the relevant ILO and IMO bodies, to prevent, report and address bullying and harassment, including sexual assault and sexual harassment, and to promote a culture of personal safety and inclusion in the maritime industry.
Another important task of your meeting will be to consider the draft amendments to the STCW Code on training provisions concerning this matter. Your advice should allow the Maritime Safety Committee to make a well-informed decision in May this year in relation to the adoption of these necessary training provisions.
I hold my firm confidence in the significance of the recommendations arising from the deliberations of this working group.
Distinguished delegates,
Today, as we are meeting here to delve into the critical subject of combating bullying and harassment, we draw strength from this collaboration the tripartite structure represents. I extend my deep gratitude to each of you for your commitment to this crucial endeavour.
Thank you.
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