German shipowners thank seafarers for 'indispensable' contribution to Germany

“Be it commodities, foodstuffs or consumer goods – the transportation of merchandise by seaways is indispensible for prosperity in Germany and everywhere across the globe: We wish to thank the 1.5m seafarers who, invisible to most of us, safely carry goods and passengers over the seas every day. In doing so, they are often separated from their families for months, exposed to hazards like heavy storms or being threatened by pirates,” said Ralf Nagel, ceo of the VDR.

Nagel stressed the importance of ships as a place for living, working and socialising for seafarers, and stated VDR’s commitment to improving conditions for seafarers through its work in Germany, Europe and the rest of the world.

The association highlighted the EUR11.1bn ($15.1bn) contribution made to Germany’s gross domestic product by 71,000 seafarers and 24,000 employees ashore, with EUR1.2bn contributed through taxes and social security by the industry.

The IMO’s Day of the Seafarer has been marked by a large social media campaign, promoting awareness of the work carried out by seafarers, and has attracted donations to seafarers' charities, including an $80,000  contribution by Singapore Authorities.