The United Nations Human Rights Council has adopted the first-ever resolution aimed at promoting and protecting the human rights of seafarers. Tabled by the Philippines, the resolution seeks to eliminate all forms of discrimination and unfair labor practices against seafarers, “ensuring a safe and secure workplace, fair terms of employment, decent working and living conditions on-board ships, health protection, medical care, welfare measures, and other forms of social protection.” The significance of this landmark resolution is underscored by the fact that Filipinos constitute the largest nationality of maritime crew, at least a quarter of the 1.9 million seafarers, serving the international merchant fleet. “This milestone resolution by the Human Rights Council advances an advocacy of the Philippines, other foreign governments, relevant international organizations and stakeholders to protect and promote the well-being of some 1.9 million seafarers, over a quarter of them Filipinos,” DFA Secretary Enrique Manalo affirmed. “The resolution acknowledges that seafarers brave challenging conditions at sea that pose risks to their enjoyment of human rights, safety, and well-being. Seafarers conduct their duties, even at times under dangerous conditions,” he emphasized.

LINK: https://seafarertimes.com/2020-21/node/9000