The Seafarer Pledge: Introducing the initiative

The Seafarer Pledge: Introducing the initiative

Join us for a discovery session, to introduce The Seafarer Pledge

The Seafarer Pledge is an initiative that recognises the vital contribution of seafarers to global trade, national resilience and daily life. It honours the heritage of the Merchant Navy while setting a clear expectation for organisations to foster fair, respectful and supportive working environments based on equality and collaboration.

12 June 11:00 AM BST 

The Seafarer Pledge, honouring our Merchant Navy, recognises the essential role seafarers play in sustaining global trade, supporting national resilience, and enabling everyday life.

 It celebrates the heritage and ongoing importance of the Merchant Navy while encouraging organisations to promote fair, respectful, and supportive working environments built on equality and teamwork.

 Inspired by the Armed Forces Covenant, the Pledge highlights a shared responsibility to improve seafarers’ welfare, dignity, and long-term career opportunities.

 Signatories are encouraged to take practical steps, including strengthening career pathways, supporting transitions between sea and shore roles, and raising awareness of maritime skills.

 Join this one-hour webinar at 11:00 on Friday 12 June 2026, hosted by Marketing in Maritime. Speakers include Merchant Navy Welfare Board (MNWB) Deputy CEO Sharon Coveney and maritime consultant Steven Jones, who are spearheading the initiative. They will explain the thinking behind the Pledge, why it is needed, and how organisations can get involved.

 Attendees will also hear how the Pledge has evolved through industry consultation, what it now includes, and how it will work in practice. The session will cover what signing involves, the support available, and the timeline for the pilot phase.

 The project is jointly funded by MNWB, Trinity House, and the Merchant Navy Association, and will culminate in a celebration event on 1 July at Norton Rose Fulbright, London.

 A proud supporters of the MNWB, Marketing in Maritime are supporting this initiative. We understand that Marketing and Communication teams have a critical role to play as the voice of the industry, shaping narratives that elevate the value of seafarers, influence perception, and drive change with initiatives that strengthen the future of maritime.