MANILA – A significant declaration aimed at enhancing seafarers’ protections was adopted during a Philippine government-led conference in Manila on September 2, 2025. The Manila Declaration on Seafarers’ Human Rights, Safety, and Well-Being establishes eight key commitments to improve sailor welfare amid challenges like global health crises and maritime conflicts.
Philippine Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva, Carlos Sorreta, emphasized that the declaration is forward-looking, preparing stakeholders for the evolving maritime landscape with fairness and sustainability. Key commitments include upholding human rights, enforcing maritime labor conventions, and ensuring seafarers can refuse to sail in high-risk areas without retaliation. Additionally, the declaration promotes corporate human rights diligence, women’s empowerment, and international cooperation in maritime education.
As of now, ten countries, including Germany, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom, have endorsed the declaration. The Philippine government encourages all maritime stakeholders to support this initiative. The international conference, attended by over 200 delegates from 40 countries, also featured notable figures like Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin.
The Philippines, a leading source of maritime workers, has long championed seafarers’ rights, previously sponsoring a historic UN resolution in 2024 recognizing their societal contributions.
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