ICMA Suggests Shore Leave Amendments for MLC, 2006
Although shore leave is vitally important to seafarers, the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 contains relatively few references to its protection. Regulation 2.4 states, “Seafarers shall be granted shore leave to benefit their health and well-being and consistent with the operational requirements of their positions.” However, there are currently no corresponding Standards or Guidelines in Regulation 2.4 to detail how shore leave should be protected or promoted.
In recent years, the opportunities for shore leave have faced significant threats. The COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain disruptions, conflicts, and other challenges have severely curtailed shore leave for many seafarers.
As states, shipowners, and seafarers’ representatives prepare for the upcoming International Labour Organization (ILO) Special Tripartite Committee #5 in April 2025, the International Christian Maritime Association (ICMA) is advocating for enhanced language in MLC, 2006 section 2.4 regarding shore leave.
ICMA, a global association representing 27 seafarers’ welfare charities operating in over 700 ports and online, is acutely aware of the health and well-being benefits that shore leave provides. ICMA is deeply concerned about the current threats to shore leave in many ports.
This concern is shared by many representatives from industry, labor, and government, who have called for stronger protections for shore leave in recent years.
Enhancing provisions related to shore leave is not only vital for protecting the mental and physical well-being of seafarers but also for improving recruitment and retention within the maritime industry.
ICMA suggests the following recommendations for the social partners and states to consider and bring forward at the next STC. We welcome any modifications that would increase interest of the partners at the STC and help protect shore leave.
The additional language is highlighted in yellow with title indications highlighted in green. Words that are not highlighted are already present in the text and provided as context for the suggested additions.
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About ICMA:
The International Christian Maritime Association (ICMA) is a global network representing 27 seafarers’ welfare charities operating in over 700 ports and online. ICMA is dedicated to supporting seafarers and ensuring their well-being and safety in an ever-changing maritime environment.
A global list of resources, commentary and research on shore leave: