New 'bill of rights' for the world’s 1.5 million seafarers


A new “bill of rights,” the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006), designed to ensure protection for seafaring workers worldwide and fair competition for shipowners, came into force on 20 August. 

"This is a historic day for the ILO," said its Director-General, Guy Ryder, adding that the MLC 2006 will apply to ships and seafarers representing nearly 60% of the world’s fleet. 

"This is a remarkable achievement. But even more encouraging is that as the rate of ratification keeps gathering momentum, the Convention will, in the next year, cover well over 70% of the world’s ships and seafarers," he emphasised. 

The reference to 2006 is explained by the fact the ILO adopted the Convention in February of that year. 

The MLC 2006 was "a key instrument" for two reasons, Ryder said. Firstly, it seeks to ensure decent work for approximately 1.5 million seafarers around the world who make shipping possible.

Secondly, it provides a level playing field for quality shipowners ensuring that decent working conditions go hand in hand with fair competition. 

"This Convention show how tripartite dialogue and international cooperation can operate constructively for this most globalised of all industries," he said.

It covers areas such as the minimum age of workers, employment agreements, hours of work or rest, payment of wages, on-board medical care, accommodation and food/catering. 

“But of course, our work is not done and I call on all countries with a maritime interest to ratify - if they have not yet done so - and urge governments and shipowners to work effectively to implement this Convention,” he added. 


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