This episode of the Lloyd’s List podcast is brought to you by Veson. Visit www.veson.com for more information

EVERY year, seafarers are held for months on end on suspicion of crimes that ultimately, there is little evidence they had anything to do with.

Whether its pollution events or, as is increasingly common, suspected drug smuggling, crew are often the only potential perpetrators investigators can lay their hands on.

So is there a lot the industry can do to stop this? Once seafarers do land themselves on the wrong side of the law, how can flag states intercede on their behalf?

Joining Joshua on the podcast this week are:

Ben Bailey, director of programme, Mission to Seafarers

Kiran Khosla, principal legal director, International Chamber of Shipping

Eleni Antoniadou, lawyer, Gard

Leo Bolivar, country manager, Marshall Islands Registry