At the Fifth Special Tripartite Meeting of the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC, 2006), governments, shipowners, and seafarers agreed on several amendments aimed at strengthening protections for seafarers. The updates cover six key areas, including protection against violence and harassment on board, recognition of seafarers as key workers, improved access to shore leave and repatriation, and enhanced medical guidance on board. Delegates also endorsed the fair treatment of seafarers in the event of maritime accidents or alleged crimes. The amendments, adopted in Geneva by over 400 participants, will be submitted for approval at the June 2025 International Labour Conference and are expected to enter into force by December 2027.
