Seafarers can be suspended or lose their jobs if they are involved in acts of sexual harassment.
The Vanuatu Maritime Safety Authority (VMSA), which oversees around 83 domestic vessels including barges and tugboats, is taking the issue seriously and is calling for reports on these behaviors, which often affect young girls and women on board.
Commissioner of Maritime Affairs, Less John Napuati, said his office will take immediate action if a complaint is received.
“If my office receives a complaint, whether through the complainant, by phone, or in writing, we will register the complaint and ensure the concerned crew member is identified. I, as Commissioner, will issue a suspension, and my inspectors will be instructed to investigate the incident. If it is too serious, I will terminate the crew or report the incident to the police.”
Earlier this year, a young girl traveling back to Santo on board Vanuatu Ferry 3 reported that she was uncomfortable when a crew member asked to store her basket in his cabin.
She added that while the ship was docked at Litslitz Wharf, she went ashore to get food with a friend. Upon returning, an expatriate crew member allegedly touched her underarm and laughed.
Not long after the incident, a similar concern was shared in a Facebook post.
A former employee of Vanuatu Ferry stated that all seafarers are aware that sexual harassment is not tolerated on board, as it could lead to suspension or serious disciplinary action.
He said there have been past incidents where some crew members lost their jobs over such behavior.
He also confirmed that there have been frequent awareness sessions about sexual harassment held on all Vanuatu Ferry ships, led by the HR department before the vessels depart for service.
Commissioner of Labour, Muriel Meltenoven, emphasized that every workplace, whether on land or sea, must be built on mutual respect.
VBTC News tried to get a response from Vanuatu Ferry last week—by phone and by visiting their office—but did not receive any comment. However, this week Vanuatu Ferry released a statement on their Facebook page, announcing they will launch an internal investigation into the sexual harassment allegations and making it clear they do not support any form of harassment, abuse, or inappropriate conduct—especially against women.
