Global
Damien Chevalier, Director of the Maritime Safety Division at the International Maritime Organization (IMO), affirmed that the global shipping sector faces an unprecedented crisis, with vessels and seafarers being used as leverage in conflicts. Chevalier clarified that the crisis is not limited to the Strait of Hormuz, noting that large numbers of ships and seafarers have been threatened in multiple regions simultaneously. He stated that the crisis, beyond the Strait of Hormuz which saw 2,000 ships and 20,000 seafarers affected at the outset of the conflict, now encompasses Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, a surge in piracy off Somalia where seafarers are held hostage, and increased drone attacks targeting oil tankers and grain vessels in the Black Sea. He pointed out that the escalation of piracy off Somalia stems from the concentration of naval assets on threats in the Red Sea and the Strait of Hormuz, which has allowed pirates to target smaller cargo ships. These developments occur as Somalia works on drafting new anti-piracy legislation. Regarding the Black Sea, Chevalier explained that the crisis there is separate from the Hormuz situation. He indicated that Ukrainian grain ports are currently receiving only one or two ships daily despite the harvest season, a rate significantly lower than the usual 20 to 30 vessels. He emphasized that what makes the situation unprecedented is not just the number of incidents, but the transformation of shipping into a deliberate tool for geopolitical influence. Commercial vessels are now treated as bargaining chips in conflicts, and seafarers are the first to feel the brunt of this, alongside the emerging risk of substandard vessels. Chevalier warned of severe economic consequences, as the Strait of Hormuz transports about 20% of the world's oil, and any disruption there impacts global inflation and living costs. Furthermore, Hormuz and the Black Sea are vital arteries for fertilizer and grain trade, putting food security at stake. The impacts could extend into next year, especially in developing countries, with rising shipping costs due to rerouting and increased security measures. As for long-term concerns, Chevalier believes the greatest worry lies in the future of the maritime workforce. The profession of a seafarer has become fraught with risks, and crews are untrained to handle broader conflict threats, making it difficult to attract younger generations. The consequences of this shortage may not become apparent for five to ten years, by which time they will be hard to address swiftly. He concluded that the solution lies in diplomacy and respect for international law, urging against the normalization of threats such as arming ships, which could spur the development of smaller, more elusive weapons. He stressed the necessity of returning to constructive engagement through the United Nations.
