Coordinated Inspection Campaign to Safeguard Seafarers’ Rights and Welfare in Maritime Industry

The welfare of crew members and the enforcement of basic rights outlined in the Maritime Labor Convention have become a growing concern within the maritime industry. The Paris and Tokyo umbrella organizations for Port State Control are launching a coordinated inspection campaign to address these issues. Over a three-month period, Port State inspectors will work to raise awareness and ensure that ships are in compliance with the conventions.

The International Maritime Organization notes that the Maritime Labor Convention, which came into force in 2013, now covers 96 percent of the gross tonnage of vessels worldwide. This convention outlines various requirements related to working and living conditions for seafarers, including minimum age, employment agreements, hours of work and rest, payment of wages, and health and safety protections.

The challenges faced by seafarers during the pandemic have highlighted the importance of ensuring their well-being and rights. The joint inspection campaign by the Paris MoU and Tokyo will focus on areas such as crew wages, employment agreements, and financial securities. Inspectors will aim to verify compliance with international agreements and address any deficiencies found during the inspections. The results of the campaign will be analyzed and may be submitted to international organizations for further action.

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