In 2023, a total of 12 deaths in maritime accidents worldwide were documented, involving ships registered under the European Union (EU), in addition to another 8 deaths in accidents that occurred in EU territorial seas with vessels registered outside the block. These recently published data reveal that the annual average of deaths in such incidents between 2019 and 2023 amounts to 26.
When investigating the incidents of 2023 more deeply, it was discovered that the majority of deaths, totaling 7 in total, occurred in the Mediterranean Sea. This is followed by 2 deaths in the North Sea, 1 in the Atlantic Ocean, and another 2 in various parts of the world. As for the types of vessels involved, 5 deaths occurred on cargo ships, 3 on service boats, and 1 each on a fishing boat, a passenger ship, and a recreational vessel. In one case, the type of boat could not be identified.
Among the victims, it was identified that 10 of the deceased were crew members working on board, while 2 were passengers. These data underscore the ongoing need to improve safety measures and crew training to prevent maritime tragedies.
With the increase in traffic in global seas, especially in areas like the Mediterranean, these figures emphasize the crucial need for effective maritime regulation and continuous surveillance to safeguard the lives of everyone on board. In this context, the EU continues to dedicate significant efforts to strengthen safety regulations and ensure effective training of its crews, looking out for the welfare of both workers and passengers in its maritime jurisdictions and beyond.
Referrer: MiMub in Spanish
