MLC Turns 20: ILO , IMO Renew Vow To Seafarers’ Rights Amid Global Shipping Challenges
The International Labour Organization (ILO) and International Maritime Organization (IMO) are celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006) , a groundbreaking treaty adopted on February 23, 2006, through rare tripartite consensus among governments, shipowners, and seafarers.
This landmark agreement created a global framework to regulate working and living conditions in the highly international shipping industry.
Over two decades, it has set enforceable minimum standards for employment, wages, hours of work and rest, accommodation, health, medical care, welfare, and social security, delivering real improvements for millions of seafarers.
The MLC has also leveled the playing field for ethical shipowners by curbing unfair competition from substandard labor practices, boosting the safety, efficiency, and resilience of maritime transport—a backbone of the world economy.
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“The COVID-19 crisis spotlighted seafarers as essential workers who kept global trade flowing, while exposing gaps in MLC enforcement.
“Today, challenges persist, including pirate attacks, ship abandonments, seafarer criminalization, fatigue, unpaid wages, and denied shore leave.Yet, as a “living instrument,” the MLC adapts via its Special Tripartite Committee, which reviews and amends standards.” statement on the IMO website said.
ILO and IMO recommit to full global implementation, urging all nations and stakeholders to enhance compliance for fair, sustainable shipping.IMO has collaborated with ILO on guidelines for seafarer abandonment, fair treatment in accidents, and detentions.
Their 2022 Joint Tripartite Working Group (JTWG) tackles bullying, harassment, sexual assault, and more, with IMO’s Legal Committee prioritizing seafarer rights.