(NEWS) SEA-CARE Sector-Wide Survey to Strengthen Crisis Response at Sea

January

2026

SEA-CARE Sector-Wide Survey to Strengthen Crisis Response at Sea

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A new ERASMUS programme – supported initiative, SEA-CARE, has officially been launched with the World Maritime University (WMU) as a partner. The project brings together five maritime welfare-focused organizations from Western Europe with a shared goal of strengthening the skills and capacities of professionals who provide psychological support to seafarers affected by serious onboard incidents.

Serious incidents at sea—such as accidents, fatalities, piracy, or other traumatic events—can have long-lasting psychological effects on those involved. Seafarers, shipowners, and authorities often lack immediate access to trained mental health support when such incidents occur. SEA-CARE addresses this gap by working to establish a robust, cross-border network of trained Maritime Crisis Responders who can provide timely and professional support during and after critical incidents.

Within the project, WMU is contributing academic and pedagogical expertise to develop a dedicated education and training programme. The programme will be grounded in the extensive practical experience of the project’s partner organizations and translated into structured learning content aimed at improving the quality, consistency, and effectiveness of psychological support provided to seafarers following traumatic maritime incidents.

SEA-CARE Survey

As a first and essential step, the SEA-CARE project has launched a sector-wide survey. The survey aims to gather insights into current experiences, needs, and challenges related to incident response and mental-health support in the maritime industry.

The survey is being distributed widely among seafarers, shipowners, maritime officials, and other stakeholders who may be involved in or affected by serious onboard incidents. Their perspectives are vital to ensuring that future crisis-response training and support systems are practical, effective, and aligned with real-world needs.

Everyone Can Help

SEA-CARE emphasizes that everyone in the maritime sector can contribute to improving crisis response and mental-health support at sea. By completing the survey, participants directly support the development of better structures, training, and cooperation across Western Europe.

The survey is open until 1 March 2026, to allow for broad participation across the sector.

Project Partners

The SEA-CARE project brings together five maritime welfare-focused organizations from Western Europe. Deutsche Seemannsmission e.V.(DSM), serves as the project lead. The additional project partners include - Antwerp Seafarers’ Welfare (ASW), Stichting Pastoraat Werkers Overzee (SPWO), Nedelandse Zeevarenden Centrale (NZC), and World Maritime University (WMU).

SEA-CARE (Agreement No. 2025-1DE02-KA210-VET-000356737) is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.

To access the survey, click here.

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My decision to enroll in the doctoral program at WMU was heavily influencedby my prior experience as a Master's student at the institution. Initiallyintroduced to me as a preeminent global institution for maritime education,WMU's stellar reputation was further substantiated by the exceptional qualityof education I received during my Master’s studies. This experience became acompelling factor in my determination to return to WMU as a doctoral student.Recognizing the synergies between my research aspirations and the institutionalofferings at WMU, I concluded that continuing my educational journey at thisesteemed institution was not only beneficial but also aligned perfectly with myacademic and professional goals.

My research explored thetheoretical foundations of governance, placing a particular emphasis onmaritime governance. Going beyond mere theoretical frameworks, the studyconducted a comprehensive examination of a crucial aspect within maritimegovernance—specifically, the implementation of International MaritimeOrganization (IMO) instruments, exploring the contextual factors that affectthe implementation process. Applying the grounded theory methodology, theresearch aimed to understand these theoretical underpinnings, as well as firmlyanchor insights in the practical context of maritime governance; unveiling theintricacies and challenges associated with the effective implementation of IMOinstruments in the maritime domain. The selection of this topic was motivatedby a personal interest that was cultivated during my Master’s studies inmaritime law and policy. Furthermore, it was driven by the recognition of ascarcity of scientific research on this specific topic. This gap in theexisting body of knowledge served as a catalyst for my exploration,underscoring the significance of contributing valuable insights to an area ofmaritime governance that has been relatively underrepresented in scholarlyresearch.

Undoubtedly, a highlight of myeducational journey at WMU was the opportunity to forge connections withinfluential change-makers and thought leaders hailing from every corner of theglobe. This invaluable chance to engage with individuals on an internationalscale has not only enabled me to expand my global network but has also servedas a conduit for immersing myself in the rich tapestry of diverse cultures.Through these global interactions, I've gained a profound understanding ofdifferent perspectives, traditions, and approaches, contributing significantlyto my personal and academic growth. This experience goes beyond mere networkingand has also played a pivotal role in fostering stronger connections within theCaribbean region from which I hail.

Embarking on my professional path,my foremost aim is to establish myself as an authority in the field of maritimegovernance. I aspire to leave a significant and enduring mark on the globalmaritime landscape. Beyond the academic sphere, my drive is fuelled by apassionate interest in pursuing diverse opportunities within the maritimedomain and the broader educational sector and contributing significantly topositive transformations in the global maritime sector.

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When I made the decision to embark on the journey of pursuing both my MScand PhD degrees, the World Maritime University (WMU) beckoned me for severalcompelling reasons. Foremost among these was WMU's sterling reputation as aworld-class institution within the maritime sphere, a factor that wieldedsignificant influence over my choice. Given my extensive background as a seniorprofessional in the maritime operational field, having held the role of acaptain, I was in search of an academic environment that could serve as a nexusfor both enriching my knowledge and providing a platform for the disseminationof my wealth of industry experience.

WMU's unwavering commitment tomaritime education, coupled with its resolute emphasis on bridging the realmsof academia and industry, deeply resonated with me. It became evident that WMUwas the perfect crucible for my transformation from a career entrenched inmaritime operations to one flourishing within academia. The University'sstoried tradition of nurturing and producing experts and leaders within themaritime sector further solidified its standing as the ideal choice for myeducational pursuits.Furthermore, WMU's distinctive interdisciplinary approachto maritime studies served as an irresistible attraction.

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One of the most memorable aspectsof my WMU experience has undoubtedly been the University's vibrant andinclusive interdisciplinary environment. Engaging with both faculty members andfellow students hailing from diverse backgrounds and nationalities has been anincredibly enriching facet of my academic journey. This inclusive atmospherehas offered me a unique opportunity to gain fresh insights and perspectivesthat would have remained undiscovered within the confines of a purely industry-focusedsetting. The collaborative exchange of ideas across various maritimedisciplines has proven to be invaluable, expanding my horizons and enriching myeducational experience. Additionally, the regular involvement in thoughtfuldiscussions, seminars, and workshops focused on globally relevant maritimetopics has served as a consistent source of inspiration throughout my time atWMU. The University’s unwavering dedication to cultivating a global network ofmaritime experts has allowed me to establish meaningful connections withprofessionals and scholars from across the world. These connections have notonly broadened my academic horizons but have also added a global dimension tomy educational journey, enhancing its depth and significance.

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