Comprehensive Action to Address Seafarers’ Challenges since the COVID-19 Pandemic—A Pragmatic Approach to Human Rights at Sea

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated many underlying issues regarding seafarers in the maritime industry, known as the “human element” at the International Maritime Organization. The challenges were a result of a global crew change crisis and issues with repatriation as a result of travel lockdowns, pay insecurity, mental health challenges, lack of digital access, and flaws within the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) that resulted in serious questions of liability and rights and responsibilities for seafarers. The Center for Ocean Policy & Economics (COPE), hosted by the Northeast Maritime Institute’s College of Maritime Science, observed and participated in several initiatives to promote human rights at sea to improve the livelihood of seafarers. The initiatives underscore pathways and methods of improvement for maritime and ocean related issues.