The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is advancing the next phase of its NextWave Seafarers initiative, expanding opportunities for aspiring seafarers from developing countries to gain the sea-time experience required to enter the maritime profession.
Launched as a pilot partnership between IMO, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Bahri, Saudi Arabia's national shipping line, this initiative is to address a longstanding barrier facing many maritime graduates: access to onboard training. While cadets may complete their academic and certification requirements, many are unable to secure the sea-time needed to qualify as professional seafarers. The pilot demonstrated that this gap can be addressed through coordinated action between governments, industry and international organizations.
NextWave Phase 2
With renewed support from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, NextWave Phase 2 (2026–2027) will move from proof of concept to scale. The next phase aims to provide training opportunities for more than 30 cadets, while broadening eligibility to include candidates from developing countries including landlocked developing countries (LLDCs) alongside Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs). A key objective is to engage at least five shipping companies in offering training berths, creating a wider and more sustainable network of industry partners.
Gender equality remains a central priority. The programme has set a target of 50% female participation and will undertake a dedicated study to identify and address barriers faced by women seeking careers at sea. An alumni network will also be established to foster mentorship and professional development among former participants.
Towards a Global Cooperative Framework
Alongside the expansion of training placements, IMO is developing a global cooperative mechanism to support the long-term growth of the initiative. Findings from an independent evaluation of the pilot, together with studies on barriers to entry, will inform a framework designed to help governments, shipping companies and other stakeholders contribute to this cooperative mechanism under a common set of standards. The framework is expected to be presented at a global workshop hosted by IMO in 2026 with a view to attract additional shipping companies and IMO Member Governments to join this global initiative under the IMO umbrella.
By connecting untapped talent with real opportunities at sea, this global movement catalyzed by IMO seeks to strengthen the global maritime workforce while opening new pathways to employment, skills development and economic opportunity for developing countries in particular SIDS, LDCs and LLDCs.
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