Splash247: Manila Declaration on Seafarers’ Human Rights, Safety and Well-Being gains international backing

A declaration seeking stronger protection for seafarers was adopted in a Philippine government-led conference in Manila earlier this week.

The Manila Declaration on Seafarers’ Human Rights, Safety and Well-Being outlines eight commitments that advance sailors’ welfare amid the risks they face at sea, including global health crisis and conflicts.

“The Manila declaration is forward looking. It anticipates the reality of an evolving maritime landscape. It prepares all of us to meet the demands of a new era with fairness, efficiency and sustainability,” Philippine permanent representative to the United Nations in Geneva Carlos Sorreta said, as he presented the outcome document at the International Conference on Seafarers’ Human Rights, Safety, and Well-being.

The eight commitments include upholding human rights at all times, fully enforcing the Maritime Labour Convention, improving crisis preparedness, and respecting seafarers right to refuse to sail in high risk areas without reprisal.

It also promotes corporate human rights due diligence, women empowerment, just transition amid digitalisation and decarbonisation, and harnessing international cooperation for maritime education and training.

Thus far, 10 countries have formally endorsed the declaration: Bangladesh, Germany, Malaysia, Myanmar, The Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Philippines, Spain, and the United Kingdom.