In 2025, ship abandonment figures reached record levels for the sixth year in a row, up 31% on 2024.
A ship is classed as abandoned under international law if a shipowner fails to pay wages
There are three main types of ITF Agreement, all approved by the ITF
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Restrictions on freedom of association and collective bargaining are systemic risks for seafarers, and they undermine the protection of all other labour rights at sea. Despite being fundamental rights under ILO Conventions 87 and 98 and reinforced by the Maritime Labour Convention – these rights are
Artificial intelligence (AI), automation and alternative fuels are transforming maritime shipping, and creating new and often under-recognised risks for seafarers. These risks arise when technological change is implemented without adequate safeguards, training or meaningful engagement with workers
Violence and harassment are systemic risks in maritime shipping. Seafarers operate in isolated, confined and hierarchical environments that increase exposure to bullying, intimidation, physical violence and sexual harassment. The closed nature of ships, combined with prolonged periods at sea and
Access to safe, clean and adequate sanitation facilities is a core component of decent working and living conditions under the Maritime Labour Convention. In practice, seafarers often face significant risks where sanitation standards are substandard, poorly maintained or not accessible. Given that
In maritime transport, the risks of modern slavery, forced labour and human trafficking rise significantly where seafarers are recruited through agencies and intermediaries, misled about terms and conditions, subjected to delayed or non-payment of wages, or prevented from leaving ships at the end of
Discrimination in maritime supply chains undermines equal access to decent work, fair treatment and career progression. Seafarers are recruited from a limited number of labour-providing countries, creating hierarchies and dynamics on board ships where nationality, race or ethnicity can determine
The MLC includes many provisions for a healthy and safe environment on ships, including the maximum length of time on board, the right to shore leave, the right to medical treatment, the crewing of ships, and the standards of accommodation and food.
There are a range of occupational safety and
