Full Breakdown
Indonesian Sailors Abandoned at Sea Demand Unpaid Wages
2/10/2026, 3:56:57 AM
Abandonment of the Crew
Indonesian sailors aboard the Portuguese-flagged fishing vessel Novo Ruivo have been stranded in Mindelo, Cape Verde, since September 2025, after the ship's owner allegedly abandoned them without paying their wages. Among the crew is Surono, an engine technician who joined the vessel in March 2025, earning a monthly salary of US$1,200. After five months of being docked, he is owed approximately US$13,200. The crew faces a difficult choice: return home without their wages or remain on the ship in hopes of receiving payment.
Growing Crisis in Maritime Labor
The abandonment of the Novo Ruivo crew is part of a larger trend affecting migrant workers in the maritime industry. The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) reported that in 2025, around 6,200 seafarers were left stranded across 410 ships globally. According to the International Labour Organisation (ILO), a ship is deemed abandoned when owners fail to pay wages for at least two months or do not cover repatriation costs. This situation has left many seafarers, particularly from Indonesia, in precarious legal and financial positions.
Family Hardships and Emotional Toll
Surono's family is struggling financially due to his unpaid wages. His wife, Kiki Andriani, expressed the emotional burden of their situation, stating, “To survive, I have to go into debt.” The couple's children are also affected, facing difficulties in attending school due to unpaid tuition fees. Surono's crewmate, Wahyudin, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the personal sacrifices made while waiting for their wages.
Official Responses and Legal Options
The ITF has reported the abandonment to authorities and contacted the Indonesian embassy in Dakar for assistance. Although repatriation was offered to the crew, they declined, fearing they would not receive their owed wages. The ITF is now exploring legal avenues, including seeking a court order to seize and sell the vessel to recover the crew's unpaid salaries. Javier Martinez, the ship owner, claims he has not abandoned the crew, stating they have access to basic necessities and receive small stipends.
Criticism of Labor Protections
Despite being covered under the ILO Work in Fishing Convention 188, labor advocates argue that enforcement of protections for seafarers remains weak. The case of the Novo Ruivo highlights ongoing gaps in labor rights for migrant workers in the fishing industry, which is increasingly critical as global demand for seafood rises. Advocates emphasize the need for stronger enforcement and international cooperation to prevent exploitation and protect the livelihoods of these workers.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We want to go home, but if we go home without money, then what?” — Surono, Crew Member
- “I want my rights. We’ve worked, and we’re asking for our wages because we have families.” — Surono, Crew Member
- “They have not been abandoned. They have everything on the boat – electricity, fresh water and food,” — Javier Martinez, Ship Owner
- “The kids don’t want to go to school because they’re embarrassed about being behind on tuition.” — Surono, Crew Member
This situation underscores the urgent need for improved labor protections for seafarers, particularly as the fishing industry continues to grow.
