A recent study by the Institute for Human Rights and Business (IHRB) has unveiled a troubling trend in the maritime industry: nearly one-third of seafarers are being coerced into paying illegal recruitment fees to secure jobs on merchant vessels. This practice, which is explicitly prohibited by the Maritime Labour Convention, remains prevalent, with 28 % of reported cases occurring in 2024 alone.
The financial burden on seafarers is staggering, with almost half of those charged fees reporting payments between $500 and $5 000. Some individuals even reported fees exceeding $10 000, leading many workers into debt and creating conditions reminiscent of modern slavery, ultimately compromising safety on ships.
An Indian ship’s Master highlighted the widespread nature of this issue, stating, “I have encountered numerous seafarers who informed me they were asked to pay fees to an agent to secure a job onboard ship.”
The mental health impact of this practice is also concerning, with nearly three-quarters of seafarers indicating that requests for recruitment fees negatively affected their mental well-being. Despite the illegality of these fees, 74 % of those who were asked complied, likely feeling they had no other options.
Perhaps most alarming is the lack of reporting: around 80 % of seafarers who faced demands for illegal fees did not report the incidents to authorities. Many were unaware that this practice is a violation of international law, underscoring a significant gap in education and enforcement.
This Research Briefing, produced collaboratively by IHRB and TURTLE, presents essential recommendations for shipping companies, cargo owners, and government agencies to combat these corrupt and illegal practices. As the maritime industry confronts this ethical crisis, immediate action is necessary to protect the rights and dignity of seafarers worldwide.
