The Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006), adopted by the International Labour Organization (ILO), sets minimum standards for the working and living conditions of seafarers. It entered into force in 2013 and is often called the seafarers' "bill of rights".
What does it cover?
The Convention is organised into five Titles:
- Minimum requirements for seafarers to work on a ship: minimum age, medical certification, training and qualifications.
- Conditions of employment: written employment agreement, wages, hours of work and rest, annual leave, repatriation.
- Accommodation, recreational facilities, food and catering.
- Health protection, medical care, welfare and social security protection.
- Compliance and enforcement: flag State and port State inspections, and on-board complaint procedures.
Why does it matter?
Whatever your flag, employer or nationality, seafarers working on ships of ratifying States are entitled to these minimum rights. Knowing them helps you knock on the right door when something goes wrong.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Refer to ILO publications for the current text.