Crises colliding: the impact of dark fleets and conflict on seafarers

The ‘dark fleet’, sometimes called the ‘shadow or ghost fleets’, describes cargo ships operating below the radar, usually transporting sanctioned goods. The fleet has grown since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and now the current conflict in the Middle East could make matters worse. 

Seafarers on board vessels like these are working in dangerous environments, with little protection and few rights. Many sign contracts to work on ships in good faith, only to find themselves without pay, insurance, or any means to seek help.

IHRB’s Francesca Fairbairn speaks to Mark Dickinson, outgoing General Secretary of Nautilus International, and Nathan Smith, a ship inspector with the International Transport Workers' Federation, to find out more about the dark fleet. Together they examine the weaknesses in international maritime law that allow dark fleets to thrive, and the human cost borne by the seafarers on board.

Stream above, or you can listen on your favourite podcast player.

If you care about human rights and are curious about the impact of business on peoples’ rights, then follow Voices to get each episode straight to your feed.

Host: Deborah Sagoe, IHRB's Communications Coordinator
Producer & Editor: Helen Brown
Additional Contributors: Sam Simmons, IHRB's Head of Communications