UK Implements Changes to Maritime Labour Convention to Enhance Seafarers’ Rights

The Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) has released details on how the UK plans to implement changes to the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) agreed upon in June 2022. The MLC, known as the ‘Seafarers Bill of Rights’, sets out the fundamental rights of seafarers globally. It is regularly updated with input from various stakeholders, including labor, government, and industry representatives. Countries that are signatories to the MLC must incorporate any new requirements into their domestic laws.

While many of the amendments align with existing UK legislation, there are four areas where changes are needed. These include providing seafarers with access to social connectivity, ensuring financial security for the ship, offering a balanced diet, and enhancing information provision for recruitment and placement services. Vessels will have until 2025 to comply with these requirements once they are incorporated into UK law.

For more detailed information, interested parties can refer to Marine Information Note (MIN) 714, which is accessible on the UK government website. This document serves as interim guidance for the industry and precedes a public consultation on the amendments. The MCA’s efforts aim to uphold the rights and well-being of seafarers while ensuring compliance with international standards set by the MLC.

Source