Governments, seafarers, and shipowners across the global shipping industry have reached a significant agreement on a series of amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006), addressing six crucial areas. These revisions are designed to bolster seafarers’ safeguards against abuse, improve their well-being on board, and facilitate smoother mobility within the sector.
The amendments were adopted during the Fifth meeting of the Special Tripartite Committee (STC) of the MLC, 2006, which convened over 400 delegates. Key improvements include:
- Strengthening protections against violence and harassment on board ships.
- Formally recognizing and calling for the designation of seafarers as key workers.
- Enhancing seafarers’ rights to shore leave to promote their health and well-being.
- Facilitating the movement of seafarers for repatriation.
Mandating that States cooperate and duly consider the IMO/ILO Guidelines on the fair treatment of seafarers in the event of a maritime accident and the recently adopted IMO/ILO Guidelines on the fair treatment of seafarers detained in connection with alleged crimes.
Recommending that ships carry the most current medical information and guidance, readily accessible to those responsible for onboard medical care.
Mark Dickinson, speaking as the Seafarers’ group Vice-Chairperson, emphasized the landmark nature of the agreement: “For the first time in any ILO instrument, we have a reference to seafarers as key workers in the Code. The unacceptable treatment seafarers endured during the COVID-19 pandemic cannot be forgotten, and we have strived to ensure such a situation is not repeated. This achievement underscores the power of tripartism, and we are committed to further progress for seafarers worldwide.”
Tim Springett, the Shipowners’ group Vice-Chairperson, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Through collaborative efforts with our partners, we have achieved significant advancements in seafarers’ rights. The success of this STC meeting demonstrates that by working together, we can overcome any challenge facing our industry.”
The Fifth meeting of the Special Tripartite Committee of the MLC, 2006, was held in Geneva, with both online and in-person participation, from April 7th to 11th. These agreed-upon amendments will now be presented for approval at the upcoming session of the International Labour Conference, scheduled for June 2nd to 13th, 2025. If ratified, the amendments are expected to come into force by December 2027.
Corinne Vargha, Director of the ILO Department of International Labour Standards and Secretary-General of the STC, highlighted the effectiveness of the tripartite approach: “The STC has once again proven that tripartite dialogue and multilateralism are effective in delivering solutions to global challenges. The significant outcomes of this week, particularly the adopted amendments to strengthen protection against violence and harassment, the recognition of seafarers as key workers, and improved access to shore leave, will positively impact the daily lives of both seafarers and shipowners.”
In addition to the amendments, the Special Tripartite Committee adopted several key resolutions, focusing on:
- The early implementation of the adopted amendment to Guideline B2.5.2 of the MLC, 2006, ensures the prompt recognition of seafarers as key workers.
- Maintaining the greatest possible consistency between the MLC, 2006, and the IMO Convention on the Facilitation of International Marine Traffic, 1965, as amended (FAL Convention), regarding shore leave requirements.
- Extending the mandate of the Joint ILO/IMO Tripartite Working Group (JTWG).
- Convening a meeting of the JTWG to specifically address the topic of hours of work and rest for seafarers.
Reflecting on the successful conclusion of the meeting, STC Chairperson Martin Marini commented, “We have achieved tripartite consensus on numerous crucial proposals and resolutions. The high level of engagement from Member States and social partners demonstrates the strong commitment of governments to the MLC.”
Haakon Storhaug, the Government group Vice-Chairperson, added, “The active participation of the Government group in the Committee reflects our commitment to the welfare of seafarers. It is now imperative for individual governments to demonstrate their commitment by considering and implementing these adopted amendments.”
