Arab Nations Top Global Seafarers Abandonment Crisis, As ITF Records 30% Surge In 2025

The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) reports a surging crisis in seafarer abandonment, with over 2,280 seafarers abandoned across 222 vessels so far this year . This marks a 30% year-on-year increase in abandonment cases, leading to a staggering $13.1 million in unpaid wages for seafarers .

Seafarer abandonment occurs when crew members are denied pay for two months or more, are left stranded, or are without essential support like food or medical care .

The Arab World accounts for 37% of all abandonment cases in 2025, with Europe following at 34% . A significant factor contributing to this crisis is the Flags of Convenience (FOC) system, under which nearly 75% of abandoned vessels in 2025 are registered . FOCs offer vessel owners anonymity, deregulation, and immunity from scrutiny, often at the expense of seafarers’ rights .

According to a statement on Tuesday, ITF is demanding accountability, warning that continued exploitation of seafarers threatens the global trade workforce . In 2024, the ITF recovered over $58.1 million in unpaid wages from FOC registries, with $13.5 million specifically for abandoned seafarers .

As of 2025, $4.1 million has already been recovered for abandoned seafarers . Despite these efforts, the ITF notes a growing concern regarding the limits of enforcement as cases continue to rise .

The year 2024 was the worst on record for seafarer abandonment, with 3,133 seafarers abandoned from 312 vessels .