A new guide designed to help seafarers understand their rights at sea has been published by the Merchant Navy Welfare Board (MNWB) on World Maritime Day.
Everything You Need to Know But Were Frightened to Ask! breaks down the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), 2006, often described as the seafarers’ bill of rights, into a practical and accessible resource for those working at sea.
Produced in close consultation with Nautilus International, the UK Chamber of Shipping, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency and RMT, the guide explains the rights and protections available to seafarers covering everything from employment conditions and wages to accommodation, medical care, welfare support and repatriation.
More than 110 countries have ratified the Convention, representing over 95 per cent of global shipping tonnage. Recent amendments have further strengthened protections around shore leave, repatriation, fair treatment and protection from bullying and harassment.
Stuart Rivers, Chief Executive of MNWB, said:
“Too many seafarers don’t fully understand the rights and protections available to them.”
“The Maritime Labour Convention is one of the most important safeguards in shipping, but navigating the legislation can be daunting. This guide cuts through the complexity and puts the information people need at their fingertips.”
“Whether you’re starting your career at sea or have spent decades in the industry, everyone should understand their rights. That’s what this guide is all about.”
The 52-page guide is available HERE
