February 23rd marks 20 years since the adoption of the Maritime Labor Convention or MLC 2006. A global instrument which sets seafarers employment rights and decent working conditions.

Behind every vessel that crosses the oceans are individuals who spent long months away from their families, working in demanding and often challenging conditions to keep world trade moving.

The Maritime Labor Convention (MLC 2006) recognizes not only their employment rights, but also their dignity as people. together with the international convention for the safety of life at sea and the international convention on standards of training certification and watchkeeping for seafarers adopted by the international maritime organization.

The Maritime Labor Convention (MLC 2006) forms a protective framework that safeguards seafarers lives, skills and working conditions. This framework reflects a simple but powerful principle. Those who serve at sea must be protected at sea.

IMO and ILO will continue working to ensure that these protections remain strong and responsive to new challenges.

As we mark this anniversary, I invite everybody to join us in commemorating the Maritime Labor Convention (MLC 2006) 20 years milestone.

Above all, I would like to speak directly to seafarers around the world. We see your contribution. We recognize your sacrifices and we remain committed to your safety, your well-being, and your rights today and in the years ahead.