Marking this year’s Seafarers Day with a bold and urgent message, the Goan Seamen Association of India (GSAI) has called for immediate action against harassment at sea.
Announcing this years theme “My Harassment-Free Ship,” GSAI President Frank Viegas emphasised that the time has come to break the silence surrounding abuse on board ships and create a safe, respectful environment for all seafarers.
“This theme is more than a phrase — it’s a call to action,” Viegas said in a statement. “Harassment, whether emotional, physical, psychological, or professional, is an unfortunate reality that too many seafarers endure in silence. Today, we break that silence.”
He pointed to a recent survey which revealed that 82% of seafarers feel that digitalisation — once promoted as a solution to simplify operations — has instead increased their administrative burden. “Instead of reducing paperwork, technology has led to longer hours spent on digital forms, audits, and compliance tasks, often cutting into rest hours and meaningful work,” Viegas added.
GSAI is taking several proactive steps to combat harassment and support seafarers. The association is partnering with maritime lawyers and international agencies to ensure access to justice for victims of workplace abuse. Recognising the psychological toll of life at sea, GSAI is offering counselling services for seafarers struggling with trauma and isolation. GSAI continues to work with international maritime organisations like the International Maritime Organisation, International Transport Workers' Federation and shipowners’ groups to advocate for stronger protections for Indian seafarers.
Viegas stressed that harassment is not a reflection of a victim’s weakness, but rather a systemic failure. “The ship should be a place of dignity and teamwork — not fear,” he said.
He also thanked the government of Goa for its continued support through the Seafarers’ Pension Scheme, while urging the central government and the Directorate General of shipping to respond more firmly to the grievances of seafarers nationwide.
“I urge every shipping company, maritime authority, and training institution to adopt zero-tolerance policies and collaborate with unions like GSAI to ensure safer ships for all,” Viegas said.