MPHRP in Bangladesh

Discussing seafarer welfare at governmental level.

MPHRP in Bangladesh

MPHRP South Asia Regional Director takes up the rehabilitation of piracy affected seafarers with the government of Bangladesh.

Chirag Bahri, MPHRP South Asia Regional Director travelled to Bangladesh last week to meet with the Minister of Shipping, Mr Shahjahan Khan. He discussed with the minister the rehabilitation issues of the seafarers returned from the captivity of Somali pirates last year after nearly four years. He emphasised that these seafarers are very strong and brave and that they need an opportunity to restart their careers at sea.

The meeting with the Minister of Shipping was also attended by the Secretary of Shipping. Mr Bahri said: “The Minister was very warm to listen to all the issues of seafarers and he reassured us that the government of Bangladesh is committed to assist these seafarers with rehabilitation.”

In another meeting with the Director General of Shipping, the officials took note of the issues concerning these seafarers. The meeting was also attended by industry representatives from the manning agents’ association and BOGSOA. All the delegates present at the meeting voiced their support for proper rehabilitation of the seven Bangladeshi seafarers of the ship Albedo and reassured us they do everything possible to help them.

Mr Bahri also met with the seven seafarers at the Bangladesh Marine Academy, Chittagong the following day and reassured them, on behalf of the programme, that MPHRP and all its partners stand with them and all of their issues will be looked into. The seafarers also went through psychological assessment during the meeting.

Chirag Bahri added: “The seafarers are now doing well and most of them are willing to go back to sea. The government and the industry have committed to help them with finding good opportunities onboard. The programme remains committed to help them in all ways possible so that they are able to stand again on their own and restart their livelihood.”

MPHRP and its partners thank the government of Bangladesh and the industry for doing everything possible to help these seafarers. MPHRP is also very thankful to its funders and partners for all their valuable guidance and support to be able to extend our humanitarian support to the seafarers affected by piracy.

Source: mphrp.org