Global Legal Experts Convene to Explore Maritime Labour Convention's Impact in Courts

Global Legal Experts Convene to Explore Maritime Labour Convention’s Impact in Courts

The third Symposium on the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), 2006, and its related case law concluded successfully on December 10 and 11. Jointly organized by the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) International Training Centre and the Shipping Research Institute (SRI), the event attracted lawyers, judges, and academics from around the world.

Deirdre Fitzpatrick, Executive Director of SRI, delivered insights on how the MLC, 2006 is influencing domestic legislation and highlighted the key elements currently shaping litigation. Alongside Professor Hilton Staniland, Fitzpatrick delved into the strategic considerations for applying the MLC, 2006 within national court systems.

Among the distinguished speakers was Rear-Admiral Jean-Marc Schindler, who chaired the Maritime Labour Convention conferences from 2001 to 2006 and served on the Joint IMO/ILO ad hoc expert working group on seafarers' claims. Schindler addressed the assembly on the dynamic nature of the MLC, 2006, emphasizing its evolution as a living convention.

Charles Boyle of Nautilus presented on the working and living conditions of maritime industry workers, while Jabeth Sen Pepath Dacany (Philippines), Francisco Venetucci (Argentina), and Tryfon Alykatoras (Greece) provided in-depth analyses of court rulings from their respective national jurisdictions. The symposium was further enriched by contributions from moderator Monica Rossi Rizzi, Beatriz Vacotto (ILO), and Professor Laura Carballo.

Reflecting on the two-day event, Deirdre Fitzpatrick stated, “Despite the widespread ratification of the MLC, 2006, seafarers continue to face challenges that result in litigation and labor disputes. Legal practitioners, judges, and academics play a crucial role in interpreting and enforcing the Convention within national courts. This annual symposium serves as an ideal platform for the maritime legal community to unite, review recent jurisprudence on critical issues, and enhance the effectiveness of the MLC.”

The symposium underscored the ongoing importance of the MLC, 2006 in shaping maritime labor laws and resolving disputes, highlighting the collaborative efforts needed to support and advance the rights and conditions of seafarers globally.