Seafarers in “Floating Jail”—depraved of communication in emergencies! The Sailors’ Union of India (SUI-BMS) is gravely concerned by reports that many shipping companies are cutting back or providing very limited internet access to seafarers on board their ships — often to the point where seafarers cannot communicate with their families in case of an emergency. "This decision is not just unfair ; it directly increases the stress on seafarers and hampers the smooth functioning of their on-board duties. Seafarers serve under challenging conditions, often away from their homes and families for months at a time. Reliable internet access is their lifeline — a crucial way to keep in touch with their families and to assure their well-being" said Mr. RP Veettil, Founder & National President (; SUI-BMS) The Maritime Labour Convention (MLC, 2006, amended) sets minimum standards for seafarers’ living and working conditions. It applies to all ships that fly the flags of ratifying states or call at their ports, regardless of their own flag’s ratification. These amendments include revisions to regulations on recruitment and placement, repatriation, recreational facilities (including access to internet service on board and at port), food and catering, and disembarkation of seafarers in need of urgent medical care. New guidelines explicitly encourage shipowners to provide access to ship-to-shore phone and internet services with reasonable charges, if applicable. Furthermore, States are encouraged, as far as reasonably practicable, to enable internet service to seafarers while in port or at anchor. While these measures are currently presented as guidelines — allowing discretion to companies and governments — seafarers’ organizations have secured their right to mandatory social connectivity. Nevertheless, there is growing concern that shipowners and governments may attempt to restrict or monetize these services instead of honoring their moral and legal obligations. The SUI-BMS appeals to all foreign shipping companies to provide adequate and sufficient internet access to seafarers. This is not a luxury; it is a necessity — for their well-being, for their ability to keep in touch with their families, and for the effective and safe operation of their ships. Remained Mr. Veettil. Contact: 📞8104168646 ☎️022-22630998 [email protected] 🌐www.suiindia.org