Posted: September 4th, 2023

The Maritime Labour Convention 2006 and its Effect within the Shipping Industry

The Maritime Labour Convention 2006 and its Effect within the Shipping Industry
Abstract:
The Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006 is an international convention that sets out minimum working and living standards for seafarers. The convention aims to protect the rights of seafarers and promote decent working conditions in the shipping industry. This research article examines the effect of the MLC 2006 on the shipping industry and the working conditions of seafarers. The study utilizes a range of academic sources from 2017 to 2022 and analyzes the impact of the MLC 2006 on different aspects of the shipping industry, including the quality of life of seafarers, working conditions, corporate social responsibility, and the development of the industry in China and other countries. The research reveals that the MLC 2006 has had a significant impact on the shipping industry, leading to improvements in working conditions and quality of life for seafarers, as well as promoting corporate social responsibility among shipping companies.
Introduction:
The shipping industry is an essential component of global trade and commerce, transporting goods and raw materials across oceans and seas. However, the industry is also known for its challenging and often harsh working conditions
for seafarers. In 2006, the International Labour Organization (ILO) adopted the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) to establish minimum working and living standards for seafarers, and to ensure that shipping companies comply with these standards. The MLC 2006 came into force in 2013 and has since been ratified by over 90 countries, covering more than 80% of the world’s shipping industry.
The MLC 2006 aims to protect the rights of seafarers and promote decent working conditions in the shipping industry. It sets out requirements for seafarers’ employment agreements, working hours, rest periods, health and safety, accommodation and food, and other key areas. The convention also establishes mechanisms for enforcing these standards and provides for inspections and certification of ships to ensure compliance.
This research article examines the effect of the MLC 2006 on the shipping industry and the working conditions of seafarers. The study utilizes a range of academic sources from 2017 to 2022 and analyzes the impact of the MLC 2006 on different aspects of the shipping industry, including the quality of life of seafarers, working conditions, corporate social responsibility, and the development of the industry in China and other countries.
Impact of the MLC 2006 on the Quality of Life of Seafarers:
The MLC 2006 has improved the quality of life of seafarers by setting minimum standards for accommodation and food. The convention requires ships to provide safe and decent living conditions, including adequate space, ventilation, lighting, and sanitary facilities. Seafarers are also entitled to nutritious and sufficient food, which has improved the quality of meals on board ships.
The MLC 2006 has also set out requirements for medical care on board ships. Ships must carry medical equipment and supplies, and seafarers must have access to medical care in case of illness or injury (Kakela & Su, 2018).. This has improved the health and safety of seafarers, who are often at risk of illness or injury due to the nature of their work.
Impact of the MLC 2006 on Working Conditions:
The MLC 2006 has had a significant impact on working conditions in the shipping industry. The convention requires minimum requirements for working hours and rest periods, leading to improved safety and well-being of seafarers. Seafarers are entitled to adequate rest periods, and working hours must not exceed maximum limits, reducing fatigue and overworking. This has led to a reduction in accidents and incidents on board ships. Additionally, the MLC 2006 requires ships to provide training and education to seafarers, which has improved their skills and knowledge, leading to better safety and efficiency (Wan & Tan, 2021).
Impact of the MLC 2006 on Corporate Social Responsibility:
The MLC 2006 has also promoted corporate social responsibility among shipping companies. The convention requires companies to take responsibility for the well-being of their seafarers and to ensure that they comply with the standards set out in the convention. Companies must provide decent working and living conditions, as well as access to medical care and other essential services. Moreover, the convention requires companies to maintain records of their seafarers’ employment and to provide seafarers with a copy of their employment agreement. This has increased transparency and accountability in the shipping industry, as companies are now required to document their compliance with the convention’s standards and provide evidence of their efforts to promote decent working conditions and protect the rights of seafarers (Li, Chen, & Lu, 2021).
It has also had an impact on the development of the shipping industry in China and other countries. The convention has encouraged the development of national legislation and regulations that align with its standards. Countries that ratify the convention are required to implement its standards in their national laws and regulations, which has led to improvements in the working and living conditions of seafarers in these countries. Additionally, the MLC 2006 has promoted the adoption of international best practices in the shipping industry. Companies that comply with the convention’s standards are recognized for their commitment to corporate social responsibility and their efforts to promote decent working conditions and protect the rights of seafarers (Baird & Faunce, 2021).
Impact of the MLC 2006 on the Development of the Shipping Industry:
The impact of the MLC 2006 on the development of the shipping industry has been significant, and its effects have extended beyond the adoption of its standards. One of its key contributions has been the development of a framework for cooperation and dialogue between different stakeholders in the industry (UN, 2006). This has helped to establish a culture of cooperation and collaboration that has enabled the industry to address issues such as crew welfare, safety, and environmental protection.
In addition, the MLC 2006 has helped to improve the image and reputation of the shipping industry. By promoting the adoption of international best practices and encouraging companies to prioritize the well-being of their crew members, the convention has helped to demonstrate the industry’s commitment to social responsibility (UNCTAD, 2015). This has helped to build trust and confidence among stakeholders, including governments, investors, and consumers.
Looking ahead, the MLC 2006 is likely to continue to play an important role in the development of the shipping industry. As the industry faces new challenges and opportunities, the convention provides a useful framework for addressing these issues in a collaborative and effective manner. By continuing to promote the adoption of international best practices and encouraging companies to prioritize the well-being of their crew members, the convention can help to ensure that the shipping industry remains sustainable, responsible, and competitive in the years to come.
Conclusion:
The Maritime Labour Convention 2006 has had a significant impact on the shipping industry and the working conditions of seafarers. The convention has established minimum standards for working and living conditions on board ships, which has improved the quality of life of seafarers and reduced the risk of accidents and incidents. Moreover, the MLC 2006 has promoted corporate social responsibility among shipping companies and encouraged the adoption of international best practices in the industry. As more countries ratify the convention and implement its standards, it is expected that the shipping industry will continue to improve its working and living conditions, leading to a safer and more sustainable industry.

Bibliography
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Bilbao-Osorio, B. and L’Espoir Decosta, L. (2020). “The Impacts of the Maritime Labour Convention 2006 on the Shipping Industry: A Global Perspective.” Sustainability, vol. 12, no. 16, p. 6529.
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