As we enter the second decade of the 21st Century the shipping industry is slow steaming through uncharted waters.  

For many, 2009 was a tumultuous year and even though the BDI regained some impetus in the last quarter, nonetheless, uncertainty prevails.  

Even though bottom line concerns predominate, another dilemma is festering and has the potential to create havoc through the shipping world and generate further global economic instability.  

Although identified, spoken, and written about, it does not appear much else is really happening to ensure the looming ships' officers shortages are dealt with objectively.

Currently, this may seem like a non-event to many in the industry as ships are laid up, many ships' officers remain beached and cargo demand/projections cloud the horizon.  Even in today’s turbulent and uncertain times one should not forget the ships' officers scarcity situation which began to unfold in 2007.

In one fashion or another, the majority of the world is reliant on shipping to sustain their economies.  Is it conceivable that such economies will be sidelined simply by an inability to properly crew world fleets and move cargo?

Unless immediate and serious initiatives are taken to ensure sufficient competent and knowledgeable ships officers are available for future shipping, world trade will undoubtedly be negatively impacted.

Many barriers exist in ensuring capacity demands can be met.  The current ageing ships' officers contingent, soon to be domiciled in shore-based retirement ports, will need to be replaced.  

However with criminalisation of seafarers laws/regulations, restrictive shore leave capabilities, expanding security initiatives, lengthy absences from home and loved ones etc., recruitment and most importantly, retention of potential candidates will become issues of increasing importance.  

The implications flowing from a ships' officers shortage are considerable.
 
To ensure our industry, upon which millions of lives depend on remains vibrant and sustainable, it behooves all to give this more than simple consideration.