Signs of alleviating crew change and seafarers getting vaccinated more evident
The Neptune Declaration Crew Change Indicator’s findings for December revealed lesser seafarers remained onboard beyond their contracts, plus an increasing number of crew getting vaccinated!
Significant improvements highlighted
The Global Maritime Forum Neptune Declaration Crew Change Indicator had something to be grateful about. December’s findings showed that the number of seafarers onboard vessels beyond the expiry of their contract dropped to 4.7 per cent from 7.1. It is the lowest since May 2021 . The population of seafarers onboard for over 11 months has decreased from 1.0 per cent to 0.7. This latest data underscored the theory that the situation has either improved or is improving at a better pace.
Additionally, the Indicator reflected a significant rise in seafarers’ inoculation. The aggregate percentage has risen to 49.5 per cent from 41. In comparison, the share of the population of fully vaccinated crew in several large shipping nations such as Europe, North America and Asia is close to or above 60 per cent. Although the rates of seafarer vaccinations remain behind those of large shipping nations, some countries had stagnated rate while other nations’ seafarer vaccination rates continue to increase significantly month-by-month.
The data cited seafarer inoculations were progressing with programmes established in numerous countries which offered vaccines to international crew. Yet, vaccination rates are at 49.5 per cent, while in comparison the share of the population fully vaccinated against COVID-19 in the European Union is 66 per cent, Hong Kong at 59 per cent, Japan with 78 per cent, Singapore at 92, the United Kingdom with 68, and in the United States 58 at per cent. Nevertheless, nobody should become complacent despite compelling improvements. All stakeholders still need to remain vigilant in ensuring the welfare of the seafarers.
Crewing Online News Team
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