ILO Updates Maritime Labour Guidance Ahead of Convention Milestone

The latest version incorporates recent amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention and aligns with the revised FAQ publication, ensuring users have access to the most current information available.

The International Labour Office (ILO) has released updated editions of two key maritime labour publications, providing governments, shipowners, seafarers, and industry stakeholders with the latest guidance on international labour standards at sea.

The updated publications include a revised version of the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006) and a new edition of the Compendium of Maritime Labour Instruments. Both resources have been refreshed to reflect recent developments in maritime labour regulations and emerging issues affecting seafarers worldwide. The updates come as the maritime industry continues to navigate evolving challenges related to worker welfare, safety, and rights.

FAQ expands guidance on modern maritime challenges

The revised FAQ publication offers practical explanations on how the Maritime Labour Convention should be applied and implemented. It addresses questions commonly raised by governments, employers, seafarers, and other maritime stakeholders. The latest edition includes guidance on the 2022 and 2025 amendments to the Convention's Code. It also examines the role of the MLC, 2006 during crises, armed conflicts, and wartime situations, reflecting lessons learned from recent global events.

Several emerging issues affecting seafarers are covered in greater detail. These include the recognition of seafarers as key workers, measures to eliminate violence and harassment on board ships, access to internet connectivity while at sea, stronger protections for abandoned seafarers, safeguards against criminalization, and issues related to the wellbeing and protection of women working in the maritime sector.

Compendium highlights key labour standards for seafarers and fishers

The updated Compendium of Maritime Labour Instruments brings together the principal labour standards adopted by the ILO to promote decent working conditions for seafarers and fishers. The publication serves as an important reference for policymakers, regulators, maritime employers, workers' organizations, and industry professionals.

The latest version incorporates recent amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention and aligns with the revised FAQ publication, ensuring users have access to the most current information available. The release of both publications is particularly significant as 2026 marks the 20th anniversary of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006. The ILO says the resources are intended to support the effective implementation of international labour standards across the maritime and fishing sectors while helping improve working and living conditions for workers at sea around the world.