The Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) must be amended in light of the challenges faced by seafarers during the pandemic, yet its status as a unique piece of international legislation protecting workers should not be forgotten, according to speakers at an event held by Seafarers’ Rights International (SRI) during London International Shipping Week, reported Nautilus International.
The event ‘future proofing the Maritime Labour Convention’ was held ahead of discussions on the amendments of the MLC next year, with possible areas of amendments including access to vaccination, medical care and crew change. The high-profile speakers included IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim and ITF General Secretary Stephen Cotton. The conference also received a message from Filipino President Rodrigo Duterte.
Seafarers are still striving for leave ships – and to join ships due to travel restrictions. We hear of several harrowing cases of deceased seafarers whose remains have stayed on board ships, as the master desperately seeks a port where they can be repatriated back to their loved ones – Kitack Lim IMO Secretary-General
Attendees thanked seafarers for their contribution during the pandemic and regretted that the situation is not resolved. Many panellists stressed the need to address challenges, such as vaccination policies and the creation of crew change hubs. They also called on all countries to recognise seafarers as keyworkers. “We cannot ignore the extreme hardships seafarers have faced during the 18 months since the Covid-19 pandemic,” said Lim. “Seafarers are still striving for leave ships – and to join ships due to travel restrictions… We hear of several harrowing cases of deceased seafarers whose remains have stayed on board ships, as the master desperately seeks a port where they can be repatriated back to their loved ones.”
In 2022, further discussions will be held on amending the MLC, with possible amendments including:
- access to vaccination
- travel and crew change
- repatriation of remains
- access to medical care
- unfair treatment
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