The ITF welcomes the news that Captain Bekavac has been able to return home to Croatia and reunite with his family after a long period of detention.
At the same time, we are extremely concerned for Chief Mate Ali Albokhari, who remains in detention and separated from his loved ones as he awaits appeal. We continue to call for his immediate release.
The circumstances of this case are a stark reminder of the vulnerability of seafarers to criminalisation and unfair treatment, and the profound human cost this brings. Urgent action is needed to ensure the full implementation of the newly adopted ILO–IMO Guidelines on the Fair Treatment of Seafarers Detained in Connection with Alleged Crimes. These guidelines outline clear expectations – such as protection from arbitrary detention, maintenance of wages and medical care, and timely legal processes – to ensure that seafarers are treated justly during investigations and proceedings.
“While we are relieved that Captain Bekavac can finally be with his family, our work is not done,” said Stephen Cotton, ITF’s General Secretary. “We will keep fighting until Ali Albokhari and all seafarers receive the fair treatment they deserve.”
“This case is a painful example of how seafarers can be caught up in situations beyond their control,” said Neven Melvan, General Secretary of the Seafarers’ Union of Croatia. “We stand in solidarity with Ali and will not stop pressing for justice.”
The ITF stands shoulder to shoulder with all seafarers subjected to such injustice, and will continue to fight for their rights, dignity, and fair treatment wherever they work.
Notes
ITF slams “outrageous” 30-year prison sentences for seafarers | ITF Global
