Current Issues: Wars and Violent Political Unrest

Following the 2021 outbreak of war in Ukraine and the Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, world shipping has again faced disruption and unacceptable threats to the lives of seafarers.

The onset of the Ukraine war immediately posed multiple challenges for the shipping industry, including the safety of ships in the Black Sea, the security and availability of seafarers in the region, and access to markets key to maintaining a secure international food and energy supply. Throughout the conflict, ICS has worked with industry partners, IMO leadership, administrations, and militaries to advocate for safe shipping lanes and the security of seafarers in Black Sea ports.

Further, actions by Houthi insurgents in Yemen have directly impacted shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, one of the most strategically important global shipping corridors. Global shipping has unfortunately been made a scapegoat by the insurgents, seeking to fulfil their geopolitical goals, leading to direct threats to seafarer wellbeing and safety. The capture of the MV Galaxy Leader and its crew began the crisis, sparking international outrage and the subsequent attacks against shipping resulted in many companies avoiding transiting Gulf of Aden altogether with roughly 60% of traffic that would normally transit through the region rerouting around the Cape of Good hope.

As geopolitical uncertainty continues, ICS engages with its partners across the industry, militaries, and international organisations to ensure members are provided with up-to-date information on ongoing security situations. ICS also works tirelessly to defend the safety and security of seafarers transiting through waters where threats exist, ensuring they are protected and provided with the safe working conditions they are entitled.