Day of the Seafarer 2025

The annual Day of the Seafarer (DotS) will be celebrated on 25 June.

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My Harassment-Free Ship 

On 25 June, the global maritime community comes together to celebrate the Day of the Seafarer. This year, we launched the campaign 'My Harassment-Free Ship', a bold initiative to promote a culture of respect and zero tolerance for bullying and harassment at sea.

Creating a Safer Workplace for Seafarers

Seafarers are the backbone of global trade, yet many face bullying, harassment, and discrimination, with studies showing that over 50% of female seafarers and a significant number of male seafarers have experienced harassment at sea that threaten their safety, mental well-being, and career progression. The maritime industry must take decisive action to foster workplaces that are safe, inclusive, and harassment-free. 

This campaign seeks to: 

  • Raise awareness about the reality of harassment at sea. 

  • Promote proactive industry action to implement zero-tolerance policies. 

  • Encourage reporting and accountability through safe and accessible channels. 

  • Equip seafarers with resources and support to navigate and combat harassment.

Introducing the Interactive World Map

A key feature of this year's campaign is the launch of an Interactive World Map, highlighting resources available by flag state to support seafarers in reporting and addressing harassment at sea. This tool will provide vital information on policies, support systems, and reporting mechanisms, empowering seafarers to seek help wherever they are in the world.

Join the Conversation

Share Your Commitment

We encourage seafarers, industry professionals, and organisations to share their pledge for a harassment-free workplace using the hashtag #MyHarassmentFreeShip

You can contribute by: 

  • Sharing experiences and insights on building a culture of respect at sea. 

  • Highlighting best practices and company initiatives that promote inclusivity. 

  • Encouraging open discussions and accountability across the industry.

Key Campaign Initiatives

1. IMO Secretary-General’s Video Message 

A special message from IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez will emphasise the need for industry-wide commitment to eliminating harassment and fostering safer workplaces.

2. Seafarer Social Media Influencer Videos

This year, we are leveraging the voices of seafarer social media influencers, including experienced maritime vloggers, industry advocates, and crew members with significant online followings from around the world to spread awareness directly to seafarers. Through video messages and social media engagement, seafarers will hear from their peers about the importance of fostering a harassment-free workplace and how they can take part in this movement. These videos will be widely shared across platforms to ensure maximum reach and engagement. 

3. Campaign material

As in previous years, the campaign will be centred on social media so join us on any of IMO's social media platforms; X, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Everyone is invited in using our campaign logo, posters and any available visual branding, stay tuned as our digital board will be available soon.

The Reality: Understanding the Challenge

  • Harassment affects seafarers of all genders and ranks, leading to emotional distress and career setbacks. 

  • Many incidents go unreported due to fear of retaliation and lack of trust in reporting systems. 

  • Stronger policies, leadership training, and global collaboration are needed to ensure real change.

Take Action

  • Seafarers: Share your stories and be part of the movement. 

  • Shipping Companies: Strengthen policies and onboard training. 

  • Maritime Organisations: Support and advocate for seafarers’ rights.

Building a Future of Respect at Sea

The Day of the Seafarer 2025 is more than a celebration—it’s a call for action. 'My Harassment-Free Ship' is about changing the maritime culture to one where every seafarer feels safe, valued, and protected at sea. Explore the Interactive World Map, access campaign materials, and join us in making every ship a harassment-free workplace. Together, we can create a safer maritime industry.

Background

The Day of the Seafarer (25 June) was established in a resolution adopted by the 2010 Diplomatic Conference in Manila to adopt the revised STCW Convention. Its stated purpose is to recognize the unique contribution made by seafarers from all over the world to international seaborne trade, the world economy and civil society as a whole.

The resolution "encourages Governments, shipping organizations, companies, shipowners and all other parties concerned to duly and appropriately promote the Day of the Seafarer and take action to celebrate it meaningfully".

Day of the Seafarer is recognized by the United Nations as an observance day.

Please see more information about the previous Day of the Seafarers here.