Day of the Seafarer: “Carrying world trade. Carrying the risks”

On today’s Day of the Seafarer (25 June), IMO points out that heightened geopolitical tensions, including the evolving situations in the Strait of Hormuz, the Black Sea and the Sea of Asov, and the Red Sea region, have highlighted the challenges faced by mariners who navigate through regions affected by conflict and insecurity. This includes the risks they take as well as the resilience they demonstrate in keeping world trade moving under difficult circumstances.  

Under the theme "Carrying world trade. Carrying the risks", the day  serves as a reminder that seafarers must never become collateral victims of geopolitical conflicts. 

In a video message, IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez underscored his appreciation for the 1.8 million men and women who work at sea, saying:

"To all seafarers: thank you. Your work is essential to the functioning of the global economy and the daily lives of people around the world. While it may not always seem visible, your safety, security and welfare remain our highest priority."  

He invited the global maritime community and all online audiences to join IMO's campaign to spotlight the unseen contribution of seafarers, while acknowledging the risks, sacrifices and personal challenges that are part of the life at sea.  

In his own message, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said: 

“When nations clash, seafarers are often caught in the crossfire. Recent events in the Strait of Hormuz have seen tens of thousands of seafarers stranded as they work far from home to keep the world fuelled and fed… Mariners must never be the victims or pawns of geopolitical conflict.” 

IMO is currently working alongside Member States and industry to evacuate seafarers and ships stuck in the Persian Gulf, following attacks on shipping in and around the Strait of Hormuz.