Global maritime leaders reaffirmed their commitment to fair treatment, due process and coordinated action to protect seafarers’ rights at the IMO Headquarters in London, United Kingdom.
Seafarers detained in connection with their professional duties must be treated fairly and with dignity, with full respect for their human rights, high level participants from the International Maritime Organization (IMO), International Labour Organization (ILO), International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), and International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) have urged, following a joint event at IMO Headquarters in London, United Kingdom on 16 June.
"Global trade depends on the people – the seafarers – who are onboard ships day in, day out. The well-being of seafarers must remain a shared global priority. Stronger legal protections, increased awareness, and continued collaboration across the maritime community are essential."
Furthermore, participants urged commitment to due process and the fair treatment of seafarers to allow them to be swiftly repatriated to their families in accordance with the IMO/ILO Guidelines, acknowledging that unfair criminalization of seafarers continues to be of significant concern to seafarers and the wider industry and reduces industry confidence.
"Ratification and enforcement of the MLC are crucial to protect seafarers against criminalization. Let’s continue to join forces to ensure that good practices on the implementation of the IMO/ILO guidelines are shared and prosecutors and judges are made aware of the particularities of the work of seafarers, essential to ensure their fair treatment. "
Corinne Vargha, ILO Director, International Labour Standards Department commented.
The event also heard case studies from people directly involved in cases including from the seafarer, port, supply chain and shipowner perspective.
