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St. Kitts-Nevis ship registry critizised for abandoning seafarers

The St Kitts and Nevis ship registry is facing severe criticism for allegedly shirking its duty towards over 30 stranded seafarers. The registry stands accused of deregistering three ships, effectively abandoning the crew members onboard, a move vehemently condemned by the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF). The 'Med Sea Eagle' and the 'Med Sea Fox', anchored off Sharjah in the UAE since July 2023, along with the 'Med Sea Lion' in West Africa, have all been deserted by the owners, Sea Lion Shipping. The crews have endured months without pay, lacking essential support for their well-being. Aboard the 'Med Sea Lion' a significant stash of cocaine was discovered earlier this year. With dwindling food and water supplies, and many in urgent need of medical assistance, the situation has become dire. One crew member of the 'Med Sea Eagle' was driven to attempt self-harm due to the distressing circumstances. ITF inspectors report a widespread deterioration in the mental well-being of these seafarers. David Heindel, ITF seafarers’ section chair and president of the Seafarers International Union, stated: “St Kitts and Nevis is playing fast and loose with international law… It is morally unacceptable to leave these seafarers to rot on stateless vessels. By merely deregistering these vessels, it should not relieve them of their obligations. If it’s that easy, what good do our international instruments provide in protecting seafarers.”