The 2022 Amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention 2006 (MLC 2006) officially came into force on 23rd December 2024. With the amendments now in effect, it is crucial for shipowners and maritime industry stakeholders to understand what these changes mean and what actions they need to take to ensure compliance.

These amendments represent a significant step forward in improving the welfare of seafarers globally. Some changes will impact shipowners directly, while others will require action from the Member States. Now that the amendments are in force, it’s essential to act swiftly to comply with the new standards.

Key Amendments to the 2022 Amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention

The 2022 Amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention focus on improving the welfare of seafarers through enhanced standards and protections. According to Article I of the Maritime Labour Convention 2019, which succeeded the 2006 Convention, Member States that ratify the Convention commit to ensuring “the right of all seafarers to decent employment.” Shipowners play a critical role in upholding these obligations.

Here are some of the key obligations shipowners must meet now that the amendments are in force:

1. Recreational Facilities and Connectivity: Shipowners must ensure sufficient recreational facilities onboard, including reliable social and technological connectivity. This includes providing internet and Wi-Fi access at reasonable charges for seafarers.

2. Provision of Food and Water: Seafarers must be provided with meals that are nutritious, balanced, and of adequate quantity and quality. Meal preparation must also respect religious and cultural practices onboard.

3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Shipowners are now required to supply all seafarers with appropriate personal protective equipment and clothing to ensure their safety and well-being at sea.

4. Financial Security Documentation: The amendments also require that the registered owner of the ship be listed on financial security documentation, in addition to the shipowner’s name, where applicable.

The Lloyd’s Register of Shipping has urged shipowners to carefully monitor public publications from their respective Member States to ensure their procedures align with the 2022 Amendments. Compliance is critical to avoid potential legal and operational issues.

What This Means Moving Forward

With the 2022 Amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention now in force, shipowners and maritime stakeholders must take immediate action to ensure they meet the new requirements. Compliance with these amendments is vital to maintaining the welfare of seafarers, as well as meeting international maritime regulations.

The industry has long been under pressure to improve the welfare of seafarers, and these amendments mark a significant step toward achieving higher standards. Shipowners must now ensure that their vessels and policies align with the new requirements and that they are providing a safe, respectful, and fair environment for seafarers.

If you have any questions regarding the 2022 Amendments or need guidance on how to comply with the new regulations, our maritime legal experts are here to help.

Reina Maria van Pallandt

Reina Maria van Pallandt is a senior disputes resolution lawyer with dual British and Dutch nationality. After obtaining an LLB Honors degree in Dutch Law and Public International Law at the University of Amsterdam (UvA), Reina Maria studied International Law of the Sea at London School of Economics (LSE).

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