Sexual harassment is an endemic problem at sea – and sadly, the yacht sector is no exception. Nautilus strategic organiser Laura Molineux presents the Union’s work to stamp out this unacceptable behaviour onboard
Sexual harassment is completely unacceptable and a criminal offence in any maritime setting. Nautilus International plays a crucial role in supporting seafarers, including those who have experienced sexual assault.
Nautilus International is dedicated to creating a safer maritime environment by providing direct support, advocating for stronger protections, and collaborating with partners to combat sexual assault at sea. We encourage non-members to join straight away, so that they are eligible for full support if they experience any issues onboard their yacht in future.
Changing the work environment
We are actively supporting research into the experiences of seafarers who have experienced sexual assault, to better understand the scope of the problem, and to better provide aid.
We advocate for the implementation of measures that protect seafarers against shipboard harassment, assault and bullying, aligning with the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) guidelines.
For example, Nautilus is working with the organisation Safer Waves on a project aimed at improving crime reporting at sea, specifically concerning sexual violence (see panel, right/above/below). This involves gathering data to develop effective support systems. Union members can get updates on this project at meetings of the Nautilus Equality and Diversity Forum.
Nautilus contributes to the development and distribution of resources like the Guidance on Eliminating Shipboard Harassment and Bullying, in conjunction with the International Transport Workers' Federation and the International Chamber of Shipping. We are also active on the ISWAN Yacht Crew Help steering committee, and contributed towards the recent Personal Safety Precautions guide.
Personal assistance
We can offer advice to members on recognising and addressing bullying and harassment (including sexual harassment) in their maritime workplace.
We can also support seafarers who wish to report incidents to their employer, flag state or other authorities while working to ensure the seafarer’s safety and wellbeing are prioritised. We can provide additional onward referrals and signposting to additional support networks for those who wish to access them.
Accessing help with sexual harassment
Within UK office hours, Nautilus members can contact their yacht sector organiser directly. In an emergency, Nautilus 24/7 is the Union’s round-the-clock helpline for members.
ions for job-seeking yacht crew is a document specifically tailored for the sector, created by maritime charity ISWAN with input from the Union.
The industry-wide Guidance on Eliminating Shipboard Harassment and Bullying document explains what shipping companies, seafarers and seafarers’ organisations can do to tackle the problem.
The Nautilus Equality and Diversity Forum provides a safe space for members to discuss issues such as sexual harassment and bullying. Keep an eye on www.nautilusint.org/events for details of the next meeting.
Tags