All Aboard Alliance Launches ‘Unspoken’ Project To Tackle Sexual Misconduct At Sea
Our take
The maritime industry, a cornerstone of global trade, is currently facing an alarming crisis that transcends the boundaries of economic and operational challenges. The launch of the 'Unspoken' project by the All Aboard Alliance marks a pivotal moment in addressing the pervasive issue of sexual misconduct at sea. According to a 2025 report, a staggering 80% of surveyed seafarers reported experiencing or witnessing a sexual offense within the last five years. This statistic not only highlights a systemic failure within maritime culture but also underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive and collaborative approach to foster safer working environments for all personnel at sea.
The significance of this initiative cannot be overstated. As we delve deeper into the complexities of ocean stewardship and economic sustainability, we must also confront the human rights violations that persist within this sphere. The maritime workforce, composed largely of individuals dedicated to their professions, deserves protection and respect. Projects like 'Unspoken' are essential not only for the well-being of seafarers but also for the integrity and reputation of the maritime industry as a whole. Similar to the calls for strategic investment in the ocean economy highlighted in the World Economic Forum: Here's why we need Strategic investment in the Ocean economy, addressing workplace safety and human rights is integral to fostering a sustainable future.
The 'Unspoken' initiative aims to break the silence surrounding sexual misconduct at sea, encouraging victims to come forward and seek justice. This approach aligns with broader societal movements towards accountability and transparency in various industries. The maritime sector must recognize that fostering a culture of openness is not merely a matter of compliance but a fundamental aspect of operational integrity. Just as recent discoveries, such as the Giant squid discovery uncovers a hidden deep-sea world off Australia, unveil the hidden complexities of our oceans, so too must we illuminate the darker corners of our industry to promote a healthier environment for all.
Moreover, the integration of innovative practices and technologies can significantly enhance the effectiveness of the 'Unspoken' project. By leveraging real-time data and longitudinal studies, the project can monitor trends and measure the impact of initiatives aimed at reducing misconduct. This empirical approach will enable stakeholders to make informed decisions and develop targeted strategies that address the root causes of these offenses. As we continue to navigate the intricate relationship between technological advancement and human experience, it is crucial to prioritize both safety and innovation in equal measure.
Looking ahead, the challenge remains: how can the maritime industry not only implement these vital changes but also ensure that they are sustained over time? The success of the 'Unspoken' project will depend on the collective commitment of all stakeholders, from shipping companies to regulatory bodies. As the maritime world grapples with its responsibilities, both to its workforce and the environments it traverses, we must remain vigilant and engaged. The urgency to transform the culture at sea is clear, but it will require ongoing dialogue, innovative solutions, and a steadfast dedication to accountability. The question now is: will the industry rise to this challenge, or will it allow the status quo to persist?
The All-Aboard Alliance, a community of maritime companies committed to improving lives at sea, has launched a project to develop a global framework for companies to better identify, prevent, and respond to unwanted sexual behaviour aboard vessels.
There is strong evidence that sexual misconduct at sea is both widespread and significantly underreported; a 2025 report found that 80% of seafarers surveyed had experienced or witnessed a sexual offence at sea within the last five years alone.
This new initiative, called Unspoken, will gather stories from seafarers about their personal experiences with sexual misconduct at sea. These stories will then inform the development of the industry’s first consistent, global framework for companies to better assess the severity of incidents and respond proportionately.
“Improving conditions for our seafaring teams means needing to confront some of the uncomfortable truths about the realities of life at sea. In doing so, we are working towards making the maritime sector a more attractive career path,” said Mikael Skov, CEO of Hafnia and All Aboard Alliance Co-Chair.
“Many Alliance member companies are already working hard to strengthen their internal processes around sexual misconduct. With Unspoken, we have a strong opportunity for a promising framework that the industry, and most importantly, seafarers, will benefit from.”
Through Unspoken, seafarers can anonymously share parts or all of their personal stories, some of which will then be shared publicly on the website to showcase the scale of the issue and challenge the silence that often surrounds it.
Importantly, the data collected will help the Alliance better understand different forms of misconduct, how incidents are assessed and responded to, and how prevention measures can be strengthened.
“Lack of data and visibility is a significant issue for the maritime industry, particularly when it comes to issues as sensitive and hidden as sexual misconduct,” says Meei Wong, CEO of Circle Digital Ventures and All Aboard Alliance Co-Chair. “The Alliance is therefore beginning this process by listening to seafarers to better understand where systems fail and succeed. Incorporating seafarer perspectives from the outset will ensure the framework is grounded in lived experience, making it more likely to be genuinely impactful.”
More than two years in the making, the future framework will be the first global standard developed by the All Aboard Alliance in line with its new 2030 strategy. Its purpose will be to support maritime companies in taking more effective, consistent action, ultimately making life at sea safer for everyone.
Unspoken has been generously funded by The Seafarers’ Charity, which supports projects and organisations working to improve the safety, well-being, and quality of life of seafarers and their families worldwide.
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