A recent BlueRights training program at the IMO International Maritime Law Institute in Malta addressed the critical challenge of protecting individuals at sea amid complex international law. Held over two days in May, the program aimed to enhance participants’ understanding of how maritime and human rights law intersect, particularly regarding the right to life during search and rescue operations.
Led by Prof. Richard Barnes and Dr. Jessica Schechinger, the training involved practical scenarios that highlighted the limitations of existing legal frameworks, including the European Convention on Human Rights and the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. Participants, many of whom work in coastguards, navies, or legal roles, engaged in formulating legal advice for human rights issues arising from maritime incidents.
Barnes emphasized the training’s success in allowing participants to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios, revealing significant gaps in legal clarity, such as responsibilities during rescue operations. The program, funded by the COST Association, aims to address the lack of understanding regarding human rights implementation at sea, which often leads to protection gaps for seafarers.
The BlueRights network, consisting of over 200 experts, focuses on three core human rights: life, liberty, and health. The initiative seeks to educate stakeholders, produce scientific publications, and influence policy to improve the application of human rights in maritime contexts.
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