Wednesday, July 1, 2020, 9:00 AM EDT The unprecedented challenges of the current environment have drawn attention again to the key role and function of Seafarers, who are the backbone of the maritime industry.When the world was in global lockdown, ships kept sailing, picking up and delivering cargo and keeping the global supply chain uninterrupted. This could not have been achieved without the endurance and commitment of the crews on board.But the issues related to Seafarers, who originate from several countries around the world, go well beyond the COVID-19 era. The shipping industry depends on the continued supply of well trained and well treated Seafarers who choose a maritime career.A top level panel of key stakeholders will discuss critical topics and initiatives related to Seafarers during the COVID-19 period and beyond, such as:  An overview of the collaborative interaction among maritime organizations, unions and companies on issues and policies related to seafarers The impact of technology and the digital revolution The development of maritime education Providing motives to choose a maritime career and making the transition from ship to shore Panelists: - Guy Platten, Secretary General - International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) - Stephen Cotton, General Secretary - International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) - Capt. Belal Ahmed, Chairman - International Maritime Employers Council (IMEC); Managing Director - Western Shipping Pte Ltd, Singapore