This year marks 50 years since the International Maritime Organization (IMO) adopted the Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS).
The theme of this year’s World Maritime Day was logically and legitimately dedicated to the safety of the seas and the protection of human life.
The theme title “Saving for the Future: Safety First”, comprehensive and meaningful, reminds us that the future of maritime transport is inextricably linked to the safety of the maritime community, the safety of our seafarers.
The challenges are great. The climate changes that the planet is going through combined with geopolitical tensions and wars in Europe and the Middle East show us in the clearest way that “Navigation to the Future” to be safe cannot be based on old norms. Technological progress and global needs for sustainable development make it necessary to adapt our maritime transport to new conditions.
New maritime transport methods in the production of alternative fuels, innovative ideas and use of new technologies are needed to protect the marine environment and also for a sustainable green transition in maritime transport.
But we also need new tools to prevent the dangers that the sea poses. The safety of crews, their training to deal with any possible danger, but also improving the quality of life on board, must be at the top of our priorities.
We are not talking about an obligation, but rather a clear debt to the sailors, thanks to whom Greek shipping is today among the main world powers.
Today, the shipping industry, in an environment of widespread uncertainty, is called upon to prove once again its resilience and capacity to serve international needs. But above all, it is called to invest in the renewal of human resources. Through joint actions with social and educational times to mobilize dynamic parts of Greek society and direct their interest towards the maritime profession
Sailors themselves should introduce themselves to Greek society, especially on the country’s islands and ports, where people gain an experiential relationship with the sea.
The work must also be done in schools. Younger and older students will be able to learn about the lives of sailors, the advantages of the profession, its beauties and difficulties. Know the enormous role of maritime transport internationally and its importance for our country.
Shipping companies themselves should open communication channels with local communities. Speak frankly about the profession of sailor, about travel safety and about working and living conditions on ships.
Young people must become participants in our naval tradition, as the son learns from the example of his naval father:
“For the bonds that are built with truths, dedication and perseverance, for what “journey” means and for the importance of respect, cooperation, solidarity and friendship”