While the world focuses on oil prices, freight rates and shipping disruptions, thousands of seafarers face a more personal crisis: their safety at sea.
On 28 August 2026, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) reported at least 70 verified attacks on international shipping since 28 February, with 19 seafarers killed. It also reported that up to 400 vessels carrying approximately 6,000 seafarers had been unable to depart the Persian Gulf safely.
For India, a major source of maritime labour, the situation raises urgent questions about crew safety, compensation and the right to return home.
1. Do Seafarers Receive Extra Pay for Entering War Zones?
Under applicable International Bargaining Forum (IBF) agreements, eligible seafarers may receive additional compensation when vessels operate in designated high-risk areas. Benefits depend on the area's classification and the employment agreement.
However, additional pay cannot eliminate the risks of missile attacks, explosions or prolonged confinement on board.
2. Can Seafarers Refuse to Sail Into Dangerous Waters?
Certain agreements provide seafarers with the right to refuse assignments in designated risk areas, along with provisions for repatriation. These rights are not identical for every vessel or contract. Seafarers should confirm their applicable protections with their employer or union.
3. Who Pays When a Crew Member Cannot Return Home?
The Maritime Labour Convention, 2006, establishes international requirements concerning repatriation and protection against abandonment, subject to its applicable provisions. However, conflict-related restrictions can delay safe crew changes and travel arrangements.
Shipowners, flag states and relevant authorities must coordinate to facilitate safe and lawful repatriation.
4. Is the Crisis Affecting Seafarer Welfare and Recruitment?
Extended deployments, uncertainty over repatriation, fatigue and separation from families can affect seafarers' mental health and willingness to accept future assignments. The extent to which the current conflict is worsening the global seafarer shortage remains uncertain.
Employers must prioritise adequate rest, reliable communication, transparent risk information and access to welfare support.
What Should Indian Seafarers Do?
Seafarers should verify their employment contracts, war-risk entitlements, insurance coverage and repatriation provisions before accepting assignments in high-risk areas. Families should maintain emergency contact details and follow official advisories.
The Bottom Line
Global shipping depends on seafarers, yet they often bear the direct human cost of maritime insecurity. Protecting crews is not simply a welfare issue—it is essential to the resilience of international trade.
The question remains: when a shipping route becomes dangerous, are seafarers adequately protected, or is commercial continuity taking priority over human safety?
Logisticswall continues to monitor maritime security developments and their impact on seafarers, shipping companies and global trade.
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