Lexical challenges in the maritime industry lead to disruptions in communication and decision-making. Considering that 90% of global trade is conducted via sea, creating a common vocabulary seems essential.
Diversity of Vocabulary and Communication Issues
The maritime industry faces specific challenges due to its diversity and complexities. The vocabulary used in this industry may vary significantly among different entities. For example, the navy and shipping companies may discuss a single topic using completely different languages. These discrepancies can lead to serious disruptions during crises.
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With the onset of Houthi attacks on ships in November 2023, the need for coordination between the navy and shipping lines was strongly felt. However, in practice, communication between these two sectors was hampered due to language differences. For instance, the term "shipper" refers to individuals who load goods onto ships, while "shipping lines" refers to companies that transport goods from one point to another.
The Importance of Vocabulary in Times of Crisis
In situations where maritime security is at risk, words and terms can have a significant impact on decision-making. For example, the term "marine insurance" is considered a single phenomenon, while in reality, there may be several types of marine insurance on a single voyage. This inaccuracy in terminology can lead to serious problems, especially when the lives of seafarers and the global economy are at stake.
Additionally, the use of abbreviations like "SAR," which stands for "Search and Rescue," may have different meanings in various environments. This can lead to confusion and serious threats during critical times.
Given these challenges, creating a common vocabulary with clear and understandable definitions in the maritime industry seems extremely necessary to improve communication and decision-making in this field and to prevent potential crises.
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