In a major win for maritime workers, the International Labour Conference adopted seven amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006), during its 113th session in Geneva. These changes, approved on June 6, aim to enhance protections and working conditions for seafarers globally, addressing critical issues like repatriation, shore leave, medical training, and harassment prevention at sea.
The Goan Seamen Association of India (GSAI) hailed the amendments as a landmark achievement for the seafaring community. GSAI President Frank Viegas emphasized that these updates recognize the essential contributions of seafarers and affirm their dignity and safety.
Key provisions include ensuring non-discriminatory repatriation for all seafarers, regardless of their ship’s flag, and the requirement for authorities to grant shore leave without bias, provided basic entry conditions are met. If denied, authorities must give written explanations.
Additional reforms recognize seafarers as key workers, enhance employer accountability for repatriation costs, improve medical training standards, and implement policies to combat onboard violence and harassment. These amendments also guarantee due process and consular protection for detained seafarers, aligning with ILO/IMO guidelines.
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