Manila Declaration Adopted to Protect Seafarers’ Rights

A new declaration calling for stronger safeguards for seafarers has been adopted at a Philippine government-led conference held in Manila earlier this week.

The Manila Declaration on Seafarers’ Human Rights, Safety and Well-Being outlines eight commitments aimed at improving the welfare of sailors who face risks from global health crises, armed conflicts, and other challenges at sea.

“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,” said Carlos Sorreta, the Philippines’ permanent representative to the United Nations in Geneva, as he presented the final document at the International Conference on Seafarers’ Human Rights, Safety, and Well-being.

The declaration’s key commitments include:

• Upholding seafarers’ human rights in all circumstances
• Full enforcement of the Maritime Labour Convention
• Strengthening preparedness for global crises
• Respecting the right of sailors to refuse voyages in high-risk areas without retaliation

It also emphasizes corporate human rights accountability, women’s empowerment in the maritime sector, a just transition during digitalization and decarbonization, and stronger international cooperation in maritime education and training.

So far, ten countries have signed on to the initiative: Bangladesh, Germany, Malaysia, Myanmar, The Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, the Philippines, Spain, and the United Kingdom.