(NEWS) Day of the Seafarer 2025

June

2025

Day of the Seafarer 2025

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The Day of the Seafarer is celebrated annually on 25 June to give thanks to the world’s 1,5 million seafarers serving on merchant vessels that carry out international commerce that is so vital to global economic and social well-being. The 2025 Day of the Seafarer theme 'My Harassment-Free Ship', is a bold initiative to promote a culture of respect and zero tolerance for bullying and harassment at sea.

In recognition of Day of the Seafarer 2025, Professor Maximo Q. Mejia, Jr., President of the World Maritime University (WMU) provided the following message:

“On 25 June, we join the global maritime community in celebrating the Day of the Seafarer, to honour the vital contributions of seafarers who keep global trade moving. This year’s theme, “My Harassment-Free Ship,” highlights a bold and necessary initiative to promote a culture of respect and zero tolerance for bullying and harassment at sea.

Shipping is essential to world trade, yet too many seafarers face unacceptable behaviours that compromise their safety, mental well-being, and career opportunities. Studies reveal that over 50% of female seafarers—and many male counterparts—have experienced harassment on board. This is a call to action.

It is vital to the well-being of everyone in our community, and the sustainability of the maritime industry overall, that we ensure zero-tolerance of harassment and bullying, and provide safe and accessible reporting mechanisms. Seafaring offers a unique and rewarding career. At the World Maritime University, we are committed to advancing a maritime culture rooted in dignity, equity, and safety, where every ship is harassment-free.”

To view the recorded message, click here.

‍WMU SUPPORTING SEAFARERS

Research, education, and training related to seafarers – their safety, security, competence, well-being, and welfare – are core activities at the World Maritime University (WMU).

A new report from the ITF Seafarers’ Trust (ITFST) and WMU highlights the continuing absence of shore leave for the world’s seafarers. Analysing the data from 5,879 seafarers who responded to the ITFST’s Shore Leave Survey, WMU researchers concluded that more than a quarter of seafarers did not get any shore leave at all, and a third only got ashore once or twice during their entire contract, based on an average of 6.6 months onboard.

A recent report published by Lloyd's Register Foundation, based on research carried out by WMU, highlights opportunities to make the number of seafarers more sustainable by investing in Africa's emerging talent and supporting women in maritime roles. Deep dive on seafarer sustainability: Supporting the opportunity for Africa and women to create a sustainable supply of seafarers for the future reveals that investment in Africa and support for more women to play a significant part in maritime roles provides a viable option in a sustainable future for seafarers.

WMU released a flagship report in 2019 entitled “Transport 2040: Automation Technology Employment - the Future of Work”. The forward-looking assessment, produced by WMU and funded by the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), investigates how the global transport industry will change as a result of automation and advanced technologies. The Phase II project report - Transport 2040: Impact of Technology on Seafarers - The Future of Work was released in 2023 providing an in-depth exploration of a number of maritime issues related to future ship technologies, including automation, to qualify the probable impact on seafarers.

In 2020, the WMU Culture of Adjustment Report underlined systemic failures in the implementation of the regulatory regime for seafarers’ hours of work and rest. In 2021, WMU launched an important new book - “The World of the Seafarer: Qualitative Accounts of Working in the Global Shipping Industry”, that addresses the need for a broader understanding of the maritime sector and provides a detailed account of the industry as a complex jigsaw of globally dispersed elements. WMU also presented the research results on, Effects of the COVID-19 panDEmic on sEafarers and shiPping (DEEP), funded by the Swedish Ministry of Infrastructure. The report reflects the remarkable resilience of the ships and port interface and the adaptability of port workers and seafarers.

WMU also offers health and wellbeing Executive and Professional Development Courses designed to provide seafarers and ship management teams with insights into personal and organizational factors influencing mental health and wellbeing. In addition, WMU hosts opportunities such as the recent workshop on Seafarers’ Work/Rest Hours and Ships’ Manning.

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Dissertation title

Maritime Governance: Contextual Factors affecting Implementation of IMO Instruments

My decision to enroll in the doctoral program at WMU was heavily influencedby my prior experience as a Master's student at the institution. Initiallyintroduced to me as a preeminent global institution for maritime education,WMU's stellar reputation was further substantiated by the exceptional qualityof education I received during my Master’s studies. This experience became acompelling factor in my determination to return to WMU as a doctoral student.Recognizing the synergies between my research aspirations and the institutionalofferings at WMU, I concluded that continuing my educational journey at thisesteemed institution was not only beneficial but also aligned perfectly with myacademic and professional goals.

My research explored thetheoretical foundations of governance, placing a particular emphasis onmaritime governance. Going beyond mere theoretical frameworks, the studyconducted a comprehensive examination of a crucial aspect within maritimegovernance—specifically, the implementation of International MaritimeOrganization (IMO) instruments, exploring the contextual factors that affectthe implementation process. Applying the grounded theory methodology, theresearch aimed to understand these theoretical underpinnings, as well as firmlyanchor insights in the practical context of maritime governance; unveiling theintricacies and challenges associated with the effective implementation of IMOinstruments in the maritime domain. The selection of this topic was motivatedby a personal interest that was cultivated during my Master’s studies inmaritime law and policy. Furthermore, it was driven by the recognition of ascarcity of scientific research on this specific topic. This gap in theexisting body of knowledge served as a catalyst for my exploration,underscoring the significance of contributing valuable insights to an area ofmaritime governance that has been relatively underrepresented in scholarlyresearch.

Undoubtedly, a highlight of myeducational journey at WMU was the opportunity to forge connections withinfluential change-makers and thought leaders hailing from every corner of theglobe. This invaluable chance to engage with individuals on an internationalscale has not only enabled me to expand my global network but has also servedas a conduit for immersing myself in the rich tapestry of diverse cultures.Through these global interactions, I've gained a profound understanding ofdifferent perspectives, traditions, and approaches, contributing significantlyto my personal and academic growth. This experience goes beyond mere networkingand has also played a pivotal role in fostering stronger connections within theCaribbean region from which I hail.

Embarking on my professional path,my foremost aim is to establish myself as an authority in the field of maritimegovernance. I aspire to leave a significant and enduring mark on the globalmaritime landscape. Beyond the academic sphere, my drive is fuelled by apassionate interest in pursuing diverse opportunities within the maritimedomain and the broader educational sector and contributing significantly topositive transformations in the global maritime sector.

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Maritime Governance: Contextual Factors affecting Implementation of IMO Instruments

The Transition to low and near zero carbon emission ports: Extent and Determinants

The Development of a Systematic, Holistic and Transdisciplinary Energy Management Framework to Promote Environmentally Sustainable Shipyards

When I made the decision to embark on the journey of pursuing both my MScand PhD degrees, the World Maritime University (WMU) beckoned me for severalcompelling reasons. Foremost among these was WMU's sterling reputation as aworld-class institution within the maritime sphere, a factor that wieldedsignificant influence over my choice. Given my extensive background as a seniorprofessional in the maritime operational field, having held the role of acaptain, I was in search of an academic environment that could serve as a nexusfor both enriching my knowledge and providing a platform for the disseminationof my wealth of industry experience.

WMU's unwavering commitment tomaritime education, coupled with its resolute emphasis on bridging the realmsof academia and industry, deeply resonated with me. It became evident that WMUwas the perfect crucible for my transformation from a career entrenched inmaritime operations to one flourishing within academia. The University'sstoried tradition of nurturing and producing experts and leaders within themaritime sector further solidified its standing as the ideal choice for myeducational pursuits.Furthermore, WMU's distinctive interdisciplinary approachto maritime studies served as an irresistible attraction.

My research focus during my tenureat WMU was centered on the pivotal subject of achieving net-zero emissions inthe maritime sector, encompassing both offshore and onshore infrastructures,including ports and shipyards. This particular research avenue held greatappeal for me due to its unique capacity to amalgamate my extensive practicalexperience as a captain within the maritime operational field with the rigorousacademic environment provided by WMU. The maritime industry is inherentlydynamic, constantly undergoing transformative changes, and I was deeplyconvinced that my research endeavors could significantly contribute toenhancing sustainability within this vital sector. The prospect of influencingpositive change by addressing contemporary challenges and emerging trends inthe maritime industry, all closely aligned with my professional background,served as a compelling motivation for my choice of research focus.

One of the most memorable aspectsof my WMU experience has undoubtedly been the University's vibrant andinclusive interdisciplinary environment. Engaging with both faculty members andfellow students hailing from diverse backgrounds and nationalities has been anincredibly enriching facet of my academic journey. This inclusive atmospherehas offered me a unique opportunity to gain fresh insights and perspectivesthat would have remained undiscovered within the confines of a purely industry-focusedsetting. The collaborative exchange of ideas across various maritimedisciplines has proven to be invaluable, expanding my horizons and enriching myeducational experience. Additionally, the regular involvement in thoughtfuldiscussions, seminars, and workshops focused on globally relevant maritimetopics has served as a consistent source of inspiration throughout my time atWMU. The University’s unwavering dedication to cultivating a global network ofmaritime experts has allowed me to establish meaningful connections withprofessionals and scholars from across the world. These connections have notonly broadened my academic horizons but have also added a global dimension tomy educational journey, enhancing its depth and significance.

Upon graduation, I was awarded aprestigious research fellowship in sustainability, energy, and the pursuit ofnet-zero emissions within the maritime industry at the esteemed University ofSouthampton in the United Kingdom. This exciting opportunity marks the nextphase of my academic and maritime journey. I remain passionately committed tocontinuing my exploration of academia and the maritime sector, building uponthe invaluable knowledge and experience I acquired during my time at WMU. Myprimary objective is to contribute significantly to the advancement of thezero-emission maritime industry, a pivotal and transformative sector within ourglobal community.

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The Development of a Systematic, Holistic and Transdisciplinary Energy Management Framework to Promote Environmentally Sustainable Shipyards