– The session, which began on Monday, April 8, 2025, brings together representatives from governments, shipowners, and seafarers’ organizations, including the Islamic Republic of Iran. Delegates are set to review proposed amendments to the Convention’s standards and guidelines addressing issues such as the prevention of violence and harassment, shore leave entitlements, fair treatment of seafarers in the event of maritime accidents, hours of work and rest, career development and skills training, repatriation procedures, and updates to the International Medical Guide for Ships.

Seafarers’ Rights and Safety Under Review

The STC meeting plays a crucial role in ensuring that the MLC, 2006 remains an active document responsive to emerging challenges in the maritime labor sector. Discussions will focus on strengthening protections for seafarers’ rights and welfare, adapting labor standards to contemporary needs, and enhancing safety and health measures on board ships.

The Maritime Labour Convention, adopted by the ILO in 2006 and entered into force in 2013, is often referred to as the “Seafarers’ Bill of Rights.” It consolidates and updates more than 65 international labor standards related to maritime work. The Special Tripartite Committee (STC) was established to keep the Convention under continuous review and propose amendments as necessary to ensure its relevance and effectiveness.

The meeting is scheduled to continue until Friday, April 12, 2025, at the ILO headquarters.

MLC Convention Framework and Review Mechanism

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