Cases of sexual harassment and social mis-conduct can happen on-board when seafarers , both men and women, are exposed to working together without adequate behavioural education. Our experience advices that such cases can be more in number and severity if the ship managers’ policies, reporting structure, training of support staff is not adequate in handling the matter at the first instance. Sometimes, such cases can lead to complicated legal suite and dent the reputation of the companies. This is a very steep price to pay for any organization and often results in companies being discouraged to hire women seafarers.

How can IWSF help

• IWSF continuously trains and guides all its women members about the desired social conduct on-board. This service is available for women seafarers employed in our member shipping companies. Right training and awareness shall improve on-board work environment.  
• The buddy concept: IWSF can remain in touch with the women seafarers during their sailing period and guide them and well as the ship manager on necessary action so that cases are at the first instance preventing further complications.
• IWSF can help companies incorporate the right policies and training for its seafarers and shore staff to handle cases of sexual harassment.  
• IWSF can provide case studies of  reported incidents to ship managers which will help them build and implement the right policies.
• IWSF can provide assistance to ICC (Internal Complaints Committee) / be part of ICC as independent investigator to help bring justice to various cases.