Loss Prevention 17 Jun, 2025 Amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention - Adopted to Strengthen Seafarer Welfare and Protections Emma MacCarthy Loss Prevention Officer At the 113th Session of the International Labour Conference (2–13 June 2025), the International Labour Organization (ILO) adopted the fifth set of amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006). These amendments, adopted on 6 June 2025, are expected to enter into force in late December 2027 and reflect the international community’s continued commitment to enhancing the rights, safety, and well-being of seafarers. Download PDF The amendments address a broad range of issues, including the recognition of seafarers as key workers, improved protections against shipboard violence and harassment, enhanced access to shore leave and repatriation, and updated medical and occupational safety standards. Key Amendments: Recruitment and Placement (Regulation 1.4) New provisions require recruitment and placement services to implement measures to prevent and address violence, harassment, and sexual assault, ensuring ethical and safe employment practices from the outset. Entitlement to Leave (Regulation 2.4) A new standard formalises seafarers’ entitlement to non-discriminatory shore leave. Visa or special permit requirements are eliminated, and port authorities must provide written reasons for any denial. Shipowners are required to facilitate shore leave in line with operational needs and seafarers’ well-being. Repatriation (Regulation 2.5) Seafarers are formally recognised as key workers, with Member States obligated to facilitate their movement for repatriation, shore leave, and medical care. Shipowners’ financial responsibilities for repatriation have been clarified to include travel, accommodation, food, medical treatment, and personal luggage. Accommodation and Recreational Facilities (Regulation 3.1) Ships must now provide appropriate menstrual hygiene products and disposal facilities, address