MLC 2006 Amendments in Force:
New Rights for Seafarers and Enhanced Compliance Obligations
Amendments adopted in 2022 under the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC 2006) entered into force globally on 23 December 2024, marking a significant shift in international maritime labour standards. As of 2026, compliance with these amendments is no longer optional; it constitutes a binding legal obligation, subject to scrutiny and enforcement through Port State Control (PSC) inspections worldwide.
The amendments reflect the evolving approach to seafarer welfare and operational accountability, introducing expanded and more clearly defined obligations for shipowners, operators, flag states and port authorities. Key areas of change are outlined below.
Gender-Specific Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Shipowners are now expressly required to provide gender-appropriate personal protective equipment for female seafarers. PPE must be ergonomically suitable and adapted to individual physical characteristics, including helmets, coveralls, gloves and safety footwear. Failure to comply may result in deficiencies being recorded during PSC inspections.
Free and Adequate Drinking Water and Nutrition Standards
Shipowners must ensure that drinking water is free of charge, of adequate quality, and available in sufficient quantities at all times. Onboard catering arrangements and food quality are subject to enhanced monitoring.
Accelerated Repatriation in Cases of Abandonment
In situations of abandonment or failure by shipowners to meet financial obligations, states are required to expedite repatriation procedures and minimise administrative delays.
Immediate Access to Shore-Based Medical Care
Port state responsibilities have been reinforced to guarantee prompt access to shore-based medical facilities for seafarers in need of urgent treatment, without delay based on nationality or administrative issues.
Repatriation of Deceased Seafarers
Where requested by the family, arrangements must be made to ensure the dignified and timely repatriation of deceased seafarers to their home countries.
Internet Access and Social Connectivity
The amendments promote access to reasonably priced internet services onboard ships and encourage port states to ensure free or affordable internet access within port areas.
Recruitment, Placement and Compensation Rights
Seafarers are afforded strengthened protections in recruitment and placement processes, including effective compensation mechanisms for financial losses caused by recruitment agency misconduct.
Recording and Reporting of Seafarer Deaths
Detailed records of seafarer deaths must be maintained and reported annually to the International Labour Organization (ILO) to enhance transparency and occupational safety standards.
Practical Implications for the Maritime Industry
The 2024 amendments significantly expand the scope of enforceable seafarer rights and corresponding compliance duties. Shipowners, operators and managers should proactively review onboard procedures, documentation, training programmes and contractual arrangements to ensure alignment with the revised MLC framework. Failure to do so may expose vessels to PSC deficiencies, detentions, reputational risk and operational disruption.
Esenyel | Partners advises shipowners and maritime operators on the practical enforcement of evolving MLC standards, with particular focus on PSC compliance and detention risk mitigation. The firm’s experience in high-risk, cross-border maritime matters enables clients to maintain operational continuity while meeting enhanced labour and welfare obligations.