What is the flag of a vessel (merchant, passenger or other type) and what is meant by the term “flag of convenience”?
Simply, the flag indicates the vessel’s “nationality” and establishes its identity on international trade. Nevertheless, the term has a deeper and more important role when it comes to the general operation of the vessel. This country (the flag) indicates the national sovereignty and legal jurisdiction under which the vessel operates. However, many countries operate as “Flags of Convenience,” offering more relaxed practices to shipowners. These include the ease of registration in the respective registry, with the registration process usually being quick and straightforward, low or often zero taxation as well as reduced operating costs, which include lower crew wages in absence of the need of compliance with stricter national labor laws.
Examples of Countries Acting as Flags of Convenience
Countries such as Panama, Liberia, the Marshall Islands, the Bahamas, and Malta are known for their services as flags of convenience. These provide a friendly legislative and tax environment for shipowners from all over the world.
But what about the seafarers and their physical and mental health being considered crucial nowadays?
The strict adherence to the provisions of the “Maritime Labor Convention (MLC)” with the Flag State being required to ensure compliance with the Code’s requirements is considered as a great progress. However, few or insufficient actions have been taken regarding the mental health of the personnel. Examples of the necessity for more initiatives on this issue emerged during the recent lockdown due to the pandemic as well as the war in Ukraine.
The mental health of seafarers is a multi-dimensional issue of vital importance, as seafarers face challengers due to the nature of their work. Life at sea can have a significant impact on their mental well-being due to:
Isolation and loneliness: Seafarers spend long periods away from their families and social environments, which can lead to loneliness and emotional isolation.
Stress and work pressure: The high responsibilities they bear, especially in dangerous or demanding situations, can increase stress levels. Strict deadlines and regulatory compliance intensify physical and mental strain.
Uncertainty and unpredictable conditions: Seafarers often face unpredictable weather conditions, technical problems on ships, or even threats from piracy, creating insecurity.
Limited space and routine: Limited access to personal space and repetitive activities can cause fatigue and a sense of confinement.
Sleep disturbances: Shift work can disrupt the natural sleep cycle, leading to chronic fatigue or other mental difficulties.
Consequences when mental health is being compromised
Possible consequences, unfortunately, accompanied by real life examples, include depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance or alcohol abuse, and an increased risk of suicidal thoughts or even suicide.
How could the “Flag of Convenience” also act as a “Flag of Responsibility” for humanitarian reasons?
The promotion of mental well-being of seafarers is the responsibility of both shipping companies/shipowners and international organizations, such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO). However, the intervention of each “Flag Sate” on the matter, having the national sovereignty and legal jurisdiction of the ship, is also considered significant. It is crucial to take immediate actions to create a more supportive and sustainable working environment at sea.
Proposed measures with the contribution of the “Flag State”
Enhancing Internet Communication: Communication with family: Obligation by the “Flag” to create systematic means of communication with families via the Internet or satellite communications to reduce loneliness and isolation. Many shipping companies offer free or subsidized Internet access, but it is not always guaranteed, and policies may vary depending on the company and the type of ship. In some cases, access is limited to professional use, restricting personal activities.
Training and Awareness: Providing educational seminars to help seafarers recognize signs of mental disorders, such as anxiety or depression, and teaching them strategies to cope. Each “Flag State” should set as a minimum requirement the certification of crew training and awareness. This ensures that all crew members are informed and trained regarding mental health so that they can offer support to their colleagues.
Access to Professional Help: Obligation by the “Flag” to provide a helpline or telemedicine for mental support and advice from mental health professionals. There should be support lines for emergency situations with easy access for immediate handling of mental health crises.
Despite the necessity of Flags of Convenience for financial, commercial and tradability reasons, they must also function as Flags of Responsibility when it comes to the physical and mental health of the personnel. Let us not forget the obvious, “a ship cannot operate without its crew members”. The contribution of every entity involved to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of seafarers is vital for commercial shipping.