A UK charity has condemned a move by the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) to get seafarers to stop working and leave vessels they've been stuck on during coronavirus lockdowns.

Human Rights at Sea said the action announced this week will harm the most vulnerable in society.

The charity added the move will disrupt global supply lanes and "has been received with disbelief, alienating the unions at a time in humanity’s history when global unity and stability is most needed".