Transiting High Risk Areas (HRA), such as the Gulf of Aden or areas prone to political conflict, poses a direct threat to the lives of seafarers. Under the International Bargaining Forum (IBF) agreements, crew members are entitled to “Double Pay” and significantly increased death/disability benefits when navigating these waters.

SWIF ensures that members are aware of their fundamental right to refuse to sail into a specifically defined war zone without penalty. We advise on proper security protocols and work with the ITF to ensure shipowners provide necessary security measures, including armed guards, fully honoring all contractual obligations related to war risk bonuses.