The International Transport Workers’ Federation has welcomed the release of the crew of the 5,100-ceu Galaxy Leader (built 2002), after they were held captive for more than a year.
However, the federation is urging governments and the maritime industry to do more to safeguard seafarers from becoming “collateral damage”, as well as from piracy and criminalisation.
ITF secretary general Stephen Cotton said: “Seafarers are the backbone of global trade, connecting our economies and societies, yet too often they become collateral damage in conflicts not of their making.
“Governments, industry and the international community must urgently take stronger, more decisive action to ensure that seafarers — who move our world everyday — are protected and able to do their jobs without having to endure the impacts of war, piracy attacks or criminalisation.”
The ITF stressed that while the release of the crew of the Galaxy Leader car carrier is an “extremely positive development”, governments must do more to prevent the capture and detention of innocent seafarers.
“In addition to geopolitical conflicts, many seafarers still face threats such as piracy and criminalisation — underscoring the urgent need for stronger protection, decisive action and collaboration with unions from governments, industry and international institutions,” the union said.
Red Sea safety assured?
The ITF also called on the Houthis to end all attacks on commercial vessels and to provide clear assurances that seafarers transiting the Red Sea will be safe.
Dave Heindel, ITF seafarers’ section chair and president of the US-based Seafarers International Union, said: “Guaranteeing safe passage through the Red Sea for all commercial ships must be the next step — we urge the Houthis to give this assurance immediately.
“Until they do, shipping companies must act with caution, ensuring that protecting seafarers’ lives is their first priority.”
Yemen’s Houthis announced the release of the crew of the Galaxy Leader this week, after negotiations brokered by Oman.
The Galaxy Leader’s international crew had been detained since November 2023. It included 17 seafarers from the Philippines, three from Ukraine, two from Mexico, two from Bulgaria and a Romanian.
Cotton said: “What is most important now is that these 25 seafarers are able to return to their homes and families as soon as possible, and that they receive the appropriate support after their unimaginable ordeal.”
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