COVID-19 and Seafarer's Crew Change

[ombugge]

The deadline is today fort Governments and Authorities around the world to react to the crisis that is created by their reluctance to allow crew change:

Unions ready to take action as crewing deadline passes - Splash247

There is a very real risk that many of the 300000 seafarers that has finished their contract, but is unable to go home, will down tool.

This will affect the supply chain and possibly block ports with idle ships, thus causing shortages in many parts of the world.

Gcaptain News also have an article about this today:

Stranded at Sea in The Time of Corona

It is also getting attention in other Maritime media worldwide:

Latest Shipping News.

There appears to be agreement on the importance of fixing this problem for ALL seafarers (Not only nation by nation)

Crew changes are so crucial that it cannot be postponed. The organization stressed the need for governments working together to remove the hurdles faced by marine transport and promote crew well being. Solidarity, coordination and international collaboration are the key to overcome the pandemic and the serious repercussions it brought along.