Updated FAQ on the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 and Compendium on Maritime instruments now available

Geneva (ILO News) - The International Labour Office has published an updated version of the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006) and a revised edition of the Compendium of Maritime Labour Instruments.

The "Frequently Asked questions" (FAQ), offers practical guidance on the application and implementation of the MLC, 2006, addressing questions raised by governments, shipowners, seafarers and other stakeholders. The new edition includes answers relating to the 2022 and 2025 amendments to the Code of the Convention, as well as the role of the MLC, 2006 in the context of crises, conflicts and wars and the recognition of seafarers as key workers. It further refers to the elimination of violence and harassment on board, the right to social connectivity through internet access, the enhanced protection of seafarers in cases of abandonment and criminalization and specific issues related to the protection of women seafarers.

The Compendium is an essential reference source including the key instruments adopted by the ILO to promote decent work for seafarers and fishers. The publication has been updated to reflect recent developments, including the latest amendments to the MLC, 2006 and the revised version of the FAQ on the MLC, 2006.

As 2026 marks the 20th anniversary of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006, the two publications serve as timely accessible and practical resources for ILO constituents and stakeholders worldwide, contributing to the promotion of decent work at sea through the effective implementation of maritime and fishing international labour standards.