Recent developments in seafarer employment include a new global minimum wage, set to rise from $690 in January 2026 to $715 by January 2028. Additionally, the UK’s Employment Rights Bill aims to enhance protections for seafarers, focusing on redundancy notifications and expanding mandatory employment standards at sea.
Recent developments in seafarer employment include a new global minimum wage of $690 per month, effective January 1, 2026, endorsed by the International Chamber of Shipping. Additionally, the UK Government’s Employment Rights Bill has been amended to enhance protections for seafarers, particularly regarding collective redundancies and wage standards.
In a significant victory for maritime workers, the International Labour Conference adopted seven amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006, enhancing protections for seafarers. Key provisions include non-discriminatory repatriation, guaranteed shore leave, and improved medical training. The Goan Seamen Association of India hailed these updates as a landmark achievement.
On May 28, 2025, Thailand’s cabinet approved amendments to the Maritime Labour Act, enhancing seafarer protections to meet international standards. The revisions include employment contracts under the Social Security Act, prohibiting underage employment, and granting the Marine Department authority over training certifications, significantly improving labor conditions for seafarers.
The International Labour Organization (ILO) is discussing potential changes to the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), with Stella Maris UK urging for urgent protections for seafarers. CEO Tim Hill emphasizes that seafarers should not have to choose between shore leave and adequate rest, as many are currently facing this unacceptable dilemma.
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