Seafarer rights strengthened with MLC ratification

The International Labour Organization (ILO) has adopted a new set of amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC), marking a significant step forward in safeguarding the rights and welfare of seafarers.

The changes to what is known informally as the 'seafarers' bill of rights' were approved by a strong majority at the 113th Session of the International Labour Conference in June 2025, and will come into force in December 2027.

The amendments, first agreed in April 2025 by the ILO's Special Tripartite Committee, address a wide range of issues affecting seafarers' working and living conditions. Nautilus previously welcomed the April agreement as a major step forward in ending the unfair treatment and criminalisation of seafarers. During the pandemic, crews faced unacceptable conditions despite keeping global trade moving, and the Union has stated that recognising seafarers as key workers is a vital achievement that it is hoped will help to prevent future crises like the crew change emergency.

Key changes include a firm commitment to repatriation without discrimination, ensuring that all seafarers – regardless of nationality or the flag of their ship – are treated equally. The amendments also mandate that shipowners cover specific repatriation costs, including travel, accommodation, meals, and medical care.

Shore leave rights have also been reinforced – seafarers will no longer need visas or special permits to go ashore, and authorities must provide written reasons if leave is denied.

Recognising the essential role of seafarers, the amendments call on member states to designate them as key workers, facilitating their movement for work-related travel, including crew changes and medical care.

Further provisions aim to ensure fair treatment of seafarers involved in marine casualties or legal proceedings abroad.

Importantly, the new rules introduce robust measures to prevent and address violence and harassment on board, including sexual harassment and bullying. Member states must now implement laws and onboard procedures to protect seafarers and ensure safe reporting mechanisms.

Ships must also provide enough suitable menstrual hygiene products for seafarers who need them, along with proper ways to dispose of them.

Guide to MLC amendments

Nautilus members can download the Union's updated guide explaining members' rights to decent living and working conditions at sea under the MLC by logging into My Nautilus. These cover the amendments which came into force in December 2024 as well as previous rounds of amendments from 2014, 2016, 2018 and 2022.