BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
Minister of Infrastructure Development, Ricky Fuo’o is asking whether Solomon Islands is doing enough to protect its seafarers.
Seafarers are among the most valued citizens; contributing to domestic commerce and bringing remittances and representing the country internationally.
“But we must ask. Are we doing enough to protect them?” Mr Fuo’o raised this question when he delivered his keynote address at this year’s International Day of Seafarers program at Solomon Islands Maritime College (SIMC), Ranadi campus yesterday.
Fuo’o referred to this year’s theme of the event “My Harassment-Free Ship” as not just a slogan but a global call to action and a demand for dignity, equality, safety and respect in every vessel sailing across the oceans.
“Our history, culture, trade and survival are tied to the sea. Are we preparing our cadets and officers not just in navigation and engineering, but also in professional ethics, personal rights and safe shipboard culture? The answer must be an honest assessment strategy that must emerge,” he said.
Fuo’o said seafarers are entitled to work in environments free from harassment, bullying, discrimination or violence regardless of gender, nationality, rank and background.
“The IMO has made it clear. We must foster a culture of inclusion and accountability across the maritime industry. As the minister responsible for maritime, I echo this call today and I add, let Solomon Islands lead by example,” he said.
Fuo’o said global institutions are championing the journey towards safer and respectful ships.
He said the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has developed strong guidelines to address bullying and harassment on ships.
Fuo’o added that maritime regulators, unions and companies are urged to enforce zero-tolerance policies, improve reporting and response mechanisms and protect whistleblowers.
“As a nation, we must integrate these global standards into our national maritime laws, training curricula and industry practices. The time for passive awareness is over. The time for action is now,” said Fuo’o.
He said Solomon Islands is a maritime nation surrounded by more ocean than land.
“The ocean is our highway, heritage and hope. But our ships must reflect our values of safety, respect and unity. Let the message of this day resound across our waters. Every ship can and must be a harassment-free ship.
Fuo’o furthered that we must work together as a government, industry, institution and maritime sector that upholds the dignity and humanity of every seafarer.
For feedback, contact:[email protected]
