June 25th is the Day of the Seafarer, a global observance led by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to recognize the critical role seafarers play in keeping global trade moving efficiently. This year, there is a particular focus in supporting seafarers’ mental well-being and safety through a “My Harassment Free Ship Campaign”. Additionally, the IMO is taking this initiative and enhancing it with a new tool designed to provide tangible, location-based support for those at sea – an interactive world map that highlights services available to seafarers across the globe.
Challenges Seafarers Face at Sea
Seafarers are met with unique challenges that are often invisible to those outside the maritime industry. From long deployments to intense isolation, life at sea can take a significant toll on one’s mental health. One of the most pressing issues, however, is the immense harassment and bullying that they face. A significant amount of both men and women struggle with some form of harassment, but according to the IMO, nearly 50% of women seafarers‘ report experiencing a level of harassment that threatens their safety. Many of these incidents remain unreported due to fear of retaliation and judgement.
These realities call attention to the importance of having access to resources for ongoing support, mental health, and dignity at work.
The Interactive World Map
To address all these challenges that seafarers face, the IMO created an interactive world map to showcase what resources are available in different parts of the world for them to utilize. The purpose of this map is for seafarers across the globe to be able to have easy access to a resource hub to meet all of their needs.
Key features of the map include:
- Mental health support hotlines specific to maritime workers
- Port-based welfare centers offering everything from rest facilities to counseling
- Reporting channels for harassment and bullying, helping break the cycle of silence
- Contact information for NGOs and unions that advocate for seafarer rights
This tool is a proactive step toward accountability and systemic change. By making support visible and accessible, it empowers seafarers to seek help when they need it most.
How Falvey Supports Seafarers
At Falvey, we support the maritime industry from many angles—through insurance solutions, risk management, and partnerships across global supply chains. We understand that behind every vessel is a crew, and behind every shipment is a person.
Isabelle Therrien, Executive Vice President Head of Cargo, is a proud board member of the Mission to Seafarers – an organization designed to support the almost 2 million men and women who work tirelessly to transport goods around the world. Founded in 1856, they provide aid at 200+ ports across the world and have year-round, 24/7 assistance available. Isabelle’s involvement in this profound organization is one of the many ways Falvey is dedicated to fostering a culture of respect in the maritime industry and ensuring that everyone feels safe and taken care of.
Learn More and Get Involved
Visit IMO’s official campaign page and the Mission to Seafarers website to learn more about how you can support seafarers.
