MLC Reaches 101 Ratifications

A message from Dr Cleopatra Doumbia-Henry, President of the World Maritime University

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I am delighted to note that as of 31 March 2022, 101 member States of the International Labour Organization (ILO) have ratified the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC) as amended. This is an extraordinary achievement. I therefore wish to congratulate all the countries that have enabled this historic achievement. This is a clear endorsement by ILO member States of the importance of shipping and keeping the global supply chain open.

Today, more than ever before, with the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic seafarers are to be commended for enabling essentially uninterrupted global shipping, allowing us to receive the goods and other necessities we need, and which we so often take for granted. I commend all member States that have ratified the Convention and encourage those countries which have not done so to ratify this important and historic instrument. The MLC consolidates 68 out of 72 maritime labour instruments into one - a Bill of Rights for the world’s maritime workers. It is a framework that creates a level playing field for Governments, seafarers and shipowners. It is a historic achievement for the global maritime community.

Dr. Cleopatra Doumbia-Henry
President
World Maritime University

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About the MLC 2006

The MLC was adopted in 2006 and has since been amended three times. It is a living instrument enabling it to be amended through a facilitated amendment process, as well as keeping up with developments as they arise. At its core, it establishes minimum working and living standards for all seafarers working on ships flying the flags of ratifying countries. Prior to joining WMU, Dr Doumbia-Henry served as the Director of International Labour Standards Department at the ILO and was responsible for developing the MLC and remained responsible for it until she joined WMU in 2015.

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