The Philippines, through the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), takes the lead in advancing the protection of the rights and welfare of seafarers as it hosts the first International Conference on Seafarers’ Human Rights, Safety, and Well-being in Manila.
During the opening of the event in Pasay City on Monday, DFA Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro underscored the significance of the Philippines hosting the event, as the country is considered the world’s largest provider of seafarers.
“For centuries, seafarers have been the unsung and unseen heroes of global trade, plying the seas amidst treacherous waters, pushing the boundaries of human imagination and exploration, and the driving force behind humanity’s prosperity and progress,” Lazaro said in her speech.
With over 80 percent to 90 percent of global trade done via sea, she said that upholding the human rights, safety, and well-being of seafarers is not an option but an obligation that all countries share.
“From the food we eat, the clothes we wear, the fuel that powers our homes and industries, the technology that keeps us connected, to the life-saving medicines that prevent and treat diseases — seafarers keep the global economy and our societies thriving,” Lazaro said.
Lazaro said that aside from all the sacrifices made by seafarers, they also face a myriad of challenges, from enduring harsh seas and unpredictable weather conditions, to experiencing labor-related challenges and even harassment, among others.
The DFA chief said the conference, held from Sept. 1 to 3, builds on the Philippines-led UN Human Rights Council Resolution 56/18, adopted in Geneva in July, which formally recognized the vital role of seafarers in sustaining global trade.
Lazaro said the landmark resolution highlights the urgency of ensuring decent working and living conditions for maritime workers.
She also underscored the relevance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights despite being adopted over seven decades ago.
“During this conference, we reaffirm that these principles must extend fully to those who spend their lives at sea, and recognize the responsibility shared by all stakeholders —be it flag states, port states, sending states, shipowners, and manning agencies— that seafarers’ rights must be fully protected and respected,” Lazaro said.
The event will culminate in the adoption of a comprehensive Declaration on the Human Rights, Safety, and Well-being of Seafarers, a global call to action urging governments, shipowners, and stakeholders to ensure that no seafarer is “left adrift” in times of crisis or transition.
The declaration underscores that protecting seafarers is a human rights imperative and urges concrete action from the maritime industry.
It also calls for strict enforcement of the Maritime Labour Convention 2006, stronger emergency preparedness, respect for seafarers’ right to decent work, and the integration of human rights due diligence in maritime business practices.
It also highlights the need to advance gender equality and inclusivity, and ensure a just transition by equipping seafarers with skills for automation, digitalization, and decarbonization.
The conference —organized by the DFA together with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), and Department of Migrant Workers (DMW)— brings together senior government officials, global shipping industry leaders, and international organizations to address urgent challenges faced by seafarers.
It features high-level discussions that foster dialogue, promote learning, and chart a course toward a safer, fairer, and more compassionate future for all seafarers. (PNA)
