THE International Transport Workers’ Federation Seafarers’ Trust has launched a photography project highlighting how the war in Ukraine has impacted seafarers.
War in Ukraine: view from the sea aims to amplify the voices of seafarers from Ukraine and from other countries who have been affected by the war.
The vision behind the project is to depict examples of humanity and the visible effects the war has had on seafarers.
The ITF Seafarers’ Trust said the situation Ukraine has added a new layer of pressure and challenges to the existing restrictions around travel and access to shore-based facilities.
Oleg Grigoryuk, president of the Marine Transport Workers’ Trade Union of Ukraine, said the project is an opportunity to demonstrate examples of solidarity and fraternal support among seafarers amid the crisis.
“It will make the different aspects of this tragedy visible to the whole world,” he said.
ITF Seafarers Trust chair of trustees David Heindel said it is difficult to imagine the toll of being away at sea while a seafarer’s country and family are in a warzone.
“It is vital that these essential key workers are given every bit of support to maintain contact with their families, support their wellbeing and for their voices and concerns to be heard,” he said.
Katie Higginbottom, head of ITF Seafarers’ Trust, said shared humanity should be the main focus in such extraordinary circumstances.
“The ability to express yourself and be heard is not to be underestimated,” she said.
“We want to hear from [seafarers] and understand the wider impact of this tragic war. We want to document images and stories to be told now and to future generations.”
The seafarers’ trust has invited Ukrainian seafarers, international colleagues, and those who support seafarer welfare to share photos, stories, thoughts, and messages.
The trust said it will donate US$10 to welfare charities providing frontline support for each individual who submits a contribution to the project.
