In the next episode of the media initiative “Divan Podcast” our Association’s experts Anna Prykhodko and Professor Boris Babin discussed issues of Crimea’s maritime economy and its transformation under occupation, including the role of ports, fisheries, shipbuilding, maritime transport, and seafarers.
Experts shared their vision on issues of challenges of occupation of Crimea to the Black Sea and the global maritime industry, including Russian naval aggression and the current attempted blockade of Ukrainian ports. Special attention was paid to Crimean seafarers and relevant illegal crewing activities, tied with the international fishery mafia and Russian shadow fleet.
Borys Babin reminded of the development of the maritime business in Crimea and pointed to the Russian steps to its total militarization during the last decade, also as the total decrease of the relevant industries in the current situation. Ukrainian maritime policy and the relevant vision of deoccupation and reintegration strategies were described; next steps were proposed to improve the situation.
ARC experts also discussed the illicit economic networks, environmental risks, sanctions, and the ongoing challenges facing Ukraine in the Black Sea. A particular focus was placed on the impact of these developments on the Crimean Tatar community, as well as the importance of maritime education and the future reconstruction and sustainable development of Crimea after its deoccupation.
