Seafarer criminalisation

Seafarers are expected to act fast in emergencies. But after accidents or rescues at sea, they can become criminal suspects before fault is proven. International law requires ships to save lives, yet rescuers can still face prosecution, detention, fines, or administrative penalties.

New 2025 guidelines on detained seafarers are progress. But they are not binding as protection still depends on whether states choose to apply them.

‍

‍