As the world marks International Day of the Seafarer today, Vanuatu’s maritime workers — both men and women — will come together in Port Vila to discuss growing concerns about harassment in the industry.

The Vanuatu Seafarers Union is using this year’s celebration to open space for honest conversations about workplace abuse and how to address it at sea.

Executive member of the Union, Captain Jeneck Patunvanu, said the maritime sector in Vanuatu is evolving, with more women now working as engineers, officers, and crew — but harassment remains a major issue.

“Today, women are joining the industry in bigger numbers, but harassment is still happening — and that’s why the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has made it the theme for this year’s Seafarers Day,” Captain Patunvanu said.

He confirmed the union has received numerous complaints over the past months and years from both local and international seafarers, raising serious concerns about safety and respect onboard ships.

The event will be held at the Port Vila Tennis Club, and all seafarers are encouraged to attend and contribute to the dialogue.

“We want every seafarer to be part of this — to raise awareness and to stand together to stop harassment in our industry,” he added.