The government is determined to ensure a safe, dignified, and harassment-free working environment for Bangladeshi seafarers working both at home and abroad, said Professor Asif Nazrul, the law advisor to the interim government.

He made the remarks while addressing a program marking the International Day of the Seafarer, held at Dhaka’s RAOWA Club on Wednesday night.

Speaking virtually, he acknowledged allegations of harassment and abuse faced by Bangladeshi seafarers in foreign ports and emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing these challenges through specific policies and initiatives.

“Nearly 90 percent of global trade depends on maritime transport, and our seafarers play a crucial role in this. It is our responsibility to ensure their safety and dignity, especially as more Bangladeshi women are now joining this profession,” Prof Nazrul said.

During the program, representatives of seafarers expressed concern over harassment, abuse, and racial discrimination they face while working abroad. They pointed out that over 10,000 Bangladeshi seafarers are currently employed in Europe, America, the Middle East, Africa, and East Asia, contributing to the national economy and enhancing the country's image.

Dr. Hafiz Ahmed Chowdhury, Secretary of the Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs Division, described seafarers as “unofficial ambassadors” of Bangladesh and stressed the need for collective efforts to ensure a dignified work environment for them.

The event, organized by multiple maritime associations, concluded with a grand cultural performance attended by current and former seafarers.

The event was jointly organized by the Bangladesh Merchant Marine Officers’ Association, The Nautical Institute, IMarEST, MC Law Service, Bangladesh Seafarers’ Union, and Bangladesh Seafarers’ Association. Speakers included Commodore Mahmudul Malek, Managing Director of Bangladesh Shipping Corporation; Engineer Ashraf Ibne Noor; Captain Md. Anam Chowdhury; Captain Mahiuddin Abdul Qadir; Engineer Abdullah Mohammad Ferdous Khan; Captain M A Malek, among others.