The training for Inspectors on the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), 2006 was held at EMSA premises in Lisbon, Portugal, from 25th to 26th June 2019 with the participation of beneficiary countries, Algeria, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco and Tunisia, of the SAFEMED IV project.

The training focused on the key aspects of the MLC, 2006 started with an overview of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 followed by an extensive component that guided the participants through the inspection process to guarantee fair labour and living conditions for seafarers on board vessels.

The MLC was adopted by the International Labour Organization (ILO) at the 94th ILC session in 2006 and entered into force on 20 August 2013. Its main objective is to set fair labour conditions for seafarers worldwide. The Convention, with its 15 Articles and 5 Titles, aims at setting minimum requirements for nearly every aspect concerning working and living conditions on board ships.

Compliance with the requirements of the MLC, 2006 is ensured through the system of Port State Control. With the non-favourable treatment clause, even ships flying the flag of a country which is not party to the Convention have to abide by the rules of the MLC, 2006 in order to a avoid possible deficiencies and/or detentions.

Regional activities as this are key to strive for the harmonisation of inspection activities and to ensure a level playing field in the Mediterranean Region