The Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), 2006, established by the International Labour Organization (ILO), is a comprehensive framework that sets global standards for the working and living conditions of seafarers. It consolidates and updates over 60 previous maritime labour conventions and recommendations into a single, legally binding instrument.

The structure of the MLC consists of three main parts:

• The Articles – Define the fundamental principles, rights, and obligations of signatory states.
• The Regulations – Provide mandatory standards that all ratifying countries must implement.
• The Code – Further elaborates the regulations and consists of:

Part A (Mandatory Standards) – Legally binding provisions.

Part B (Guidelines) – Recommendations for effective implementation.

The MLC is divided into five main titles, covering different aspects of seafarers' rights:

Title 1: Minimum Requirements for Seafarers to Work on a Ship

• Establishes minimum age (16 for general work, 18 for hazardous work).
• Sets medical fitness requirements.
• Regulates seafarer recruitment and placement services to prevent exploitation.

Title 2: Conditions of Employment

• Ensures fair employment contracts with clearly stated rights and duties.
• Regulates wages, working hours (maximum 14 hours in 24 hours, 72 hours in 7 days), and rest periods.
• Covers paid annual leave, repatriation, and compensation for contract termination.

Title 3: Accommodation, Recreational Facilities, Food, and Catering

• Establishes minimum standards for onboard accommodation, including cabins, ventilation, lighting, and sanitation.
• Ensures access to quality food and drinking water.
• Provides for recreational facilities such as internet access, libraries, and fitness areas.

Title 4: Health Protection, Medical Care, Welfare, and Social Security Protection

• Guarantees access to medical care onboard and ashore.
• Provides for health protection, safety measures, and accident prevention.
• Ensures welfare provisions, including social security benefits like pensions and unemployment support.

Title 5: Compliance and Enforcement

• Establishes mechanisms for flag states, port states, and shipowners to ensure compliance.
• Requires regular inspections, certification (Maritime Labour Certificate), and handling of complaints.
• Provides sanctions for non-compliance, including detention of ships.

The Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance (DMLC) is a key document under the MLC, ensuring that ships comply with the convention’s requirements. It is divided into two parts:

DMLC Part I – Issued by the Flag State

• Specifies national laws and regulations implementing MLC requirements.
• Outlines the minimum working and living standards applicable to all ships under the flag.
• Covers provisions related to seafarers’ rights, onboard conditions, and social protection.

DMLC Part II – Prepared by Shipowners

• Details the measures shipowners implement to comply with DMLC Part I.
• Includes policies on crew welfare, onboard safety, and complaint handling procedures.
• Specifies how inspections and internal audits ensure compliance with MLC standards.

Together, DMLC Part I and Part II ensure that seafarers' welfare is protected by addressing aspects such as decent working conditions, fair treatment, health protection, and social security benefits. They also provide a framework for authorities to inspect and certify ships for compliance with the MLC.