UN Day of the Seafarer highlights sacrifice of key workers at sea during pandemic
The 2020 Day of the Seafarer campaign is calling on IMO Member States to recognize seafarers as key workers - and to provide them with the support, assistance and travel options open to all key workers during the pandemic, IMO said in its release.
The 2020 Day of the Seafarer pays tribute to the seafarers who continue to carry essential goods despite facing tremendous challenges, including being stranded on board. Organised by IMO, this year's campaign calls on governments to take action and formally recognise seafarers as key workers.
On 25 June every year, the Day of the Seafarer turns the spotlight on the contribution seafarers make to world trade. The 2020 campaign is calling on IMO Member States to recognize seafarers as key workers - and to provide them with the support, assistance and travel options open to all key workers during the pandemic.
In his Day of the Seafarer message, IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim highlighted the unique and essential work of seafarers, who deliver 80% of global trade by volume.
About the Day of the Seafarer
The Day of the Seafarer is celebrated every year on 25 June. The day celebrates and recognizes the unique contribution made by seafarers from all over the world to international seaborne trade, the world economy and civil society. 2020 marks the 10th edition of the Day of the Seafarer.
IMO – the International Maritime Organization – is the United Nations specialized agency with responsibility for the safety and security of shipping and the prevention of marine pollution by ships.
