Sustainable Shipping Initiative (SSI) has launched a code of conduct for employers to protect seafarers' rights and welfare.
The code has been developed with the Institute for Human Rights & Business, dry bulk vetting agency RightShip and the Rafto Foundation for Human Rights.
It is intended to encourage compliance with the Maritime Labour Convention 2006 (MLC) the main international convention covering seafarers' welfare. But it also includes issues that are not covered by the MLC.
SSI said the code was also developed with input from Louis Dreyfus Co, Oldendorff Carriers, Standard Chartered Bank, Swire Shipping, charterer South32 and Wilhelmsen Ship Management.
"This presents a unique opportunity for the industry to work together and take concrete action for the rights of nearly two million seafarers worldwide," said Kristina Kunigenas, human rights lead at SSI.
The pandemic highlighted seafarers' welfare issues. It left hundreds of thousands of crew members at sea, with limited access to health care and shore leave.
Robert Haggquist, senior chartering manager at global mining and metals company South32, said the pandemic has shown the vulnerability of seafarers.
"With this code of conduct we are addressing the systemic issues in the industry by giving owners and charterers a platform to collaborate and to improve transparency around seafarers’ welfare," he said.
"Only by improving the respect for seafarers’ rights can we achieve truly sustainable supply chains with positive social impact."
The code of conduct requires owners to commit to the development of an inclusive workplace, free of discrimination.
Seafarers must also be offered training and mentoring, while the workplace must be kept free of harassment and violence.
Employers' crewing strategy must provide for the physical and mental well-being of personnel.
It also requires shipowners to go beyond the minimum crewing levels.
The code requires crewing levels to be set in line with a realistic assessment of tasks, and at numbers that ensure the wellbeing of seafarers.
