The Copenhagen-based Maritime Anti-Corruption Network (MACN) has proved effective in helping shipping companies resist bribery demands, reports the UK's Seatrade Maritime News.

Capt Leonid Zalenski, Group COO of Colombia Shipmanagement, said the Maritime Crew Connect Global event in Manila that he had initially doubted MACN's success but was later convinced after seeing results. The network was set up in 2011 and now has more than 220 members worldwide.

MACN operates helpdesks in India, Egypt, Nigeria and Ukraine to support vessel Masters when authorities demand payments or gifts. Masters notify the helpdesk before arrival, and when faced with demands, simply inform the helpdesk, which has proved effective in many cases.

Capt Zalenski said seafarers are on the frontline and need strong backing from their offices to resist corruption. He explained that politely telling officials the company is a MACN member and cannot pay bribes often ends the demand.

He added that when asked to issue a formal penalty, officials usually lose interest in pursuing bribes. However, he stressed that if crew health or safety were at risk, non-payment would not be insisted upon.