IBIA supports joint industry call to protect maritime workforce at IMO Council Session

Today, at the 36th Extraordinary Session of the International Maritime Organization Council, held to address the impacts on shipping and seafarers arising from the situation in the Arabian Sea, the Sea of Oman, and the Gulf region, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, IBIA pledged its support to a joint industry statement issued by the International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH) and the Federation of National Associations of Ship Brokers and Agents (FONASBA). The statement highlights the critical importance of protecting those working in ports, maritime services, ship agencies, pilots, bunkering, and the broader shoreside maritime workforce.

The statement was delivered during the IMO Council meeting by FONASBA and was also supported by the International Harbour Masters Association (IHMA), the International Maritime Pilots Association (IMPA), the International Port Community Systems Association (IPCSA) and the World Association for Waterborne Transport Infrastructure (PIANC).

The full statement reads as follows:

The global maritime industry is deeply concerned by the escalation of hostilities affecting parts of the Middle East and the resulting risks to maritime operations, port communities and international supply chains.

The Federation of National Associations of Ship Brokers and Agents (FONASBA), the International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH), the International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA), the International Harbour Masters Association (IHMA), the International Maritime Pilots Association (IMPA), the International Port Community Systems Association (IPCSA), and the World Association for Waterborne Transport Infrastructure (PIANC) fully support the submission made by ICS, BIMCO et al. concerning the welfare of seafarers. We share their concern for the safety, wellbeing, and fair treatment of all personnel working at sea.

In addition, we wish to highlight the critical importance of protecting those working in ports, maritime services, ship agencies, pilots, bunkering and the broader shoreside maritime workforce.

Representing ports, shipping agents, maritime service providers and the wider shoreside maritime workforce, FONASBA, IAPH, IBIA, IHMA, IMPA, IPCSA and PIANC call for the utmost respect for the safety and wellbeing of all those working across the maritime sector.

Every day, thousands of men and women operate in ports, terminals and maritime services to ensure the uninterrupted movement of food, energy, medical supplies and essential goods that sustain communities around the world. Their safety and wellbeing must remain a fundamental priority.

The maritime sector is a cornerstone of global stability and prosperity. More than eighty percent of global trade moves by sea, connecting economies and enabling the flow of critical supplies to populations everywhere. Disruptions to maritime routes and port operations therefore have far-reaching humanitarian and economic consequences.

We call on all parties to recognise the importance of keeping maritime trade routes open and ensuring the protection of maritime infrastructure and personnel. Safe navigation, functioning ports and the continued movement of essential goods are vital for the wellbeing of people everywhere.

The maritime community stands united in its commitment to cooperation, dialogue and the protection of human life. We will continue to work together with international organisations, governments and industry partners to support maritime workers and maintain the resilience of global supply chains.

Further maritime organisations across the global industry are invited to join this collective call in support of safe and secure maritime operations.