On June 25, 2024, the European Community Shipowners’ Associations (ECSA) hosted a significant conference at the Royal Antwerp Maritime Academy to mark the “Day of the Seafarer 2024: Next Generation at Sea.” This event was a convergence of industry leaders, policymakers, educators, and aspiring seafarers, all dedicated to shaping the future of maritime professions. Karin Orsel, President of ECSA, led the event, emphasizing the importance of the next generation in the maritime sector.
Networking Highlights
During the event, participants had the opportunity to network with key figures such as Katy Speelman, a professor specializing in STCW courses and the founder of a startup focused on the welfare and well-being of seafarers. Speelman’s diverse background as an ex-captain provided valuable insights into the industry’s needs. Additionally, representatives from FOD Mobiliteit also took part in the discussions, contributing their expertise to the collaborative atmosphere.
Overview of the EU Presidency’s Maritime Initiatives
Els Claeys, Director of Environment Safety, provided an overview of the EU Presidency’s accomplishments over the past six months, highlighting several key initiatives:
1. Flag State Requirements: The updated Directive 2009/21/EC aims to enhance digitalization and interoperability across ports, ensuring more efficient operations.
2. Port State Control (PSC): A new directive has been introduced to improve PSC inspections and the Quality Management System (QMS).
3. Accidents at Sea: Recognizing the budget constraints faced by member countries, Europe will provide water drones to assist in maritime accident investigations.
4. Ship Source Pollution: The updated Directive 2005/35/EC promotes uniform enforcement and sanctions for illegal discharges, extending the scope to cover more pollutants.
5. Draft EMSA Regulation: The Council has adopted a position to strengthen the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA), enhancing maritime safety across the EU.
Focus on Wellbeing and Inclusivity
The conference also emphasized the importance of seafarers’ wellbeing. The discussions at the BXL conference and the WISTA event underscored several critical areas:
• Physical and mental health
• Listening to seafarers’ needs
• Recognizing the importance of work-life balance
• Promoting inclusivity across gender and LGBTQ+ communities
• Enhancing training and connectivity between maritime schools
• Raising awareness about respect and safety onboard, including anti-bullying measures
Panel Discussion Insights
A lively panel discussion featured Professor Helen Verstraelen, an expert in Maritime Legislation and Ecology, Captain Marino Van der Welden from Exmar Gastanker, and two maritime students, Gaia Dossin and Aurelien Ferlaud.
Student Perspectives:
• Aurelien Ferlaud: Expressed the financial security and job readiness that a maritime career offers, highlighting job security as a key motivator.
• Gaia Dossin: Appreciated the freedom, structured hierarchy, and generous holidays that come with a maritime career.
Professor Helen Verstraelen:
• Stressed the importance of lifelong learning and adapting to new technologies, such as VR-goggles and 360-degree simulators for lifeboat courses.
• Discussed the evolving landscape of maritime legislation and the need for a flexible mindset among seafarers.
Captain Marino Van der Welden:
• Highlighted essential skills for seafarers, including flexibility, communication, leadership, and motivation.
• Spoke about the unique rewards of a maritime career, such as out-of-the-box thinking and diverse opportunities post-seafaring.
When asked about their wishes for onboard amenities, the students emphasized the need for a doctor, ergonomic furniture, and better living conditions to improve their long working hours.
Seafarers’ Welfare: A Collective Responsibility
Fotini Ioannidou, Director Waterborne at the European Commission’s DG Mobility and Transport, delivered the closing remarks, emphasizing that the welfare of seafarers is a collective challenge. She called for collaboration among shipowners, regulatory bodies, and the International Labour Organization (ILO) to ensure the well-being of those at sea.
Conclusion
The “Day of the Seafarer 2024: Next Generation at Sea” conference was a pivotal event that highlighted the industry’s commitment to supporting the next generation of seafarers. Through networking, insightful discussions, and a focus on wellbeing and inclusivity, the event underscored the collective effort required to navigate the future of the maritime industry successfully.
