Cyprus highlights seafarers’ rights and European shipping competitiveness in Athens

Athens, Greece. Cyprus highlighted seafarers’ rights, shipping’s social role and the competitiveness of the European fleet during a three-day maritime programme in Athens. Shipping Deputy Minister Marina Hadjimanolis said the protection of seafarers must be addressed alongside the major changes affecting global shipping.

Maritime Labour Convention anniversary

Hadjimanolis spoke at an international symposium marking the 20th anniversary of the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC).

The convention was adopted in Geneva on February 23, 2006, creating a single international framework for seafarers’ rights. It sets minimum standards covering working and living conditions, medical care, social protection, repatriation and other core employment rights.

Cyprus participated in the negotiations leading to the convention’s adoption. In 2012, it became the 29th country worldwide and the ninth EU member state to ratify it.

Changing shipping sector

Hadjimanolis said the MLC should not be viewed as a static text, but as a living international framework that must evolve with the industry.

She said the convention’s role is particularly relevant as shipping is transformed by technological developments, stricter environmental requirements and changing workforce needs. The sector also faces increasing pressure related to safety, environmental protection, digitalisation and competitiveness.

“At the centre of shipping is the human being,” she said.

Cyprus implementation

Hadjimanolis said seafarer protection should not be regarded solely as a legal or regulatory obligation. She described it as a fundamental condition for safe, sustainable, competitive and humane shipping.

Cyprus has incorporated the convention into national legislation and applies its provisions as both a flag state and a port state. The country also maintains complaint-handling mechanisms and works with employers and seafarer representatives through social dialogue.