The International Maritime Organization has dedicated the year 2010 as the year seafarer. In a message posted on the IMO website, E.E. Mitropoulos, Secretary General of the IMO dedicated the year to the 1.5 million seafarers, men and women, around the world, and their often underappreciated contributions to global trade and commerce. As a maritime attorney, I was happy to note that the Secretary General’s message made mention of the extraordinary service that a seaman renders in often dangerous circumstances.  The Secretary General also assured seafarers that the IMO understands the severe pressure they work under, and appreciates...

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