Global plague , followed by the winds of war ? The marine industry has had a rather unusual couple of years . For the most part , the industry is united in fighting COVID and condemning Russian aggression in Ukraine .
For example , as Russia invaded Ukraine on now infamous 24th of February 2022 , Cruise Lines International Association ( CLIA ) wasted no time in expressing its solidarity with the people of Ukraine . CLIA also wowed to work with the organizations across the maritime community , including the International Labour Organization ( ILO ), the International Maritime Organization ( IMO ) and shipping associations , to address challenges to the safety , security , and well-being of seafarers as a result of the conflict .
Also , Shipowners ’ Associations – among them , Finnish Shipowners ’ Association – have condemned the Russian invasion . The Shipowners ’ Associations called the Russian Government ’ s decision to invade Ukraine “ appalling ,” noting that this act has serious consequences for the people of Ukraine and must be stopped immediately .
We call on Russia to cease the hostilities and respect international law and human rights , including the protection of all affected seafarers and the protection of lives at sea , the Shipowners ’ Associations urged in a joint statement .
DARK CLOUDS ABOVE
According to the Confederation of Finnish Industries ’ April 2022 Business Tendency
Survey , Finnish companies ’ outlooks have darkened in all the main sectors . The business cycle is still favourable in manufacturing , but is already declining in construction and services .
Sami Pakarinen , Director at the Confederation of Finnish Industries , observes that Russia ’ s attack on Ukraine is reflected especially in construction , where the situation has deteriorated quickly .
“ The availability of materials in particular is now a major issue , and it is also a significant problem in manufacturing . Even though there still is ample demand in many areas , uncertainty about the future combined with a strong rise in costs is mak-
24 seatec 3 / 2022