The ‘Be a Buddy, Not a Bully’ campaign was launched by HSSEQ in 4Q25. It focuses on creating a safe and positive environment onboard, and aims to show that a good psychosocial work environment is not just important for well-being, but a crucial factor for safety on board.
What is harassment?
Harassment is any unwelcome behavior that makes someone feel intimidated, humiliated, or unsafe. It can be verbal, physical, written, or non-verbal, and may target personal characteristics such as age, gender, nationality, or beliefs.
Examples of harassment include:
- Offensive jokes, comments, or gestures
- Unwanted remarks about appearance or personal life
- Threats or intimidation
- Sharing inappropriate messages or images
Even behaviors meant “as a joke” can be considered harassment if they are unwelcome or make someone uncomfortable.
“Seeing real situations made the message stronger. It reminded me that professionalism is not only about doing your job, but also about how you treat people, especially during stressful situations.”
Engine Cadet Christian Louise Verdida, Bow Odyssey
“Overall, the training was informative, engaging and relevant. It successfully raised awareness about bullying and harassment while promoting self-awareness and mutual respect. The combination of lecture, self-reflection, video presentation and clear house rules made this safety campaign effective in encouraging everybody to “be a buddy, not a bully.”
CHO Julius D. Oaferina, Bow Lind
What is bullying?
Bullying is repeated, unreasonable behavior directed at an individual or group that creates a risk to health, safety, or well-being. Unlike harassment, bullying may not always target personal characteristics—it often involves misuse of power or authority.
Examples of bullying include:
- Constant criticism or public humiliation
- Excluding someone from team activities
- Spreading rumors or gossip
- Unfair task assignments or setting someone up to fail
Bullying can be subtle or overt, but its effects are serious: it can harm confidence, morale, teamwork, and mental health.
“Be a Buddy, not a Bully campaign reminds us that kindness, respect, and understanding can make a powerful difference in our daily lives. I was also compelled to evaluate my own actions and obligations because of this effort. It showed me that everyone has a responsibility to stop bullying, not only educators and leaders. We may contribute a welcome and safe environment for everyone by being conscious of our words and deeds and by encouraging cooperation and respect. By choosing compassion, opposing bullying, and ensuring that no one feels alone or ignored, it motivates us to become better people.”
Engine Cadet Charles James T. Mann, M/T Bow Cardinal
The campaign was developed by HSSEQ, Competence Administrator Hyacinth Sharma, former Communications Officer Elaine Dico, and Manager Competence Development Karianne Grønseth, with video training material from Bow Gemini, Bow Faith, Bow Odyssey, and Bow Cardinal.
Many thanks to all the crews who have shared their reports and insights.
More to come in the next Bow News!
