Seminar to Consider Seafarers' Part in Refugee Crisis

The seminar, entitled: ‘Plans for the Eastern Med and Assistance to Crews Affected by the Refugee Crisis’, will be chaired by Jos Standerwick, Director of Development for The Mission. The seminar will discuss the impact the recent refugee crisis in the Mediterranean has had on the seafarers, and, in particular, the risk and legal factors facing seafarers and the broader shipping industry.

The Revd Cannon Ken Peters, Director of Justice and Public Affairs at The Mission, who will be the main speaker at the seminar, will address industry concerns, including how refugees and seafarers are regarded and treated under international law. “We cannot forget that the rescuing of refugees at sea is a highly courageous act by seafarers, and one that is often sadly ignored. We will look at the effects of this and how the shipping industry can help tackle the risks imposed on seafarers, when they stop to help a failed attempt to cross international waters,” he said.

The Mission will also use the occasion to launch its corporate portfolio which outlines the work the charity carries out and the importance an integrated network of support offers seafarers worldwide.

“We are hugely privileged to have been chosen as the nominated charity for Posidonia. Launching our corporate profile will shine a wider light on the work we do and how seafarers and their families rely on us in stormy waters,” Mr Standerwick said.