A first-ever resolution that protects the rights of seafarers and eliminates all forms of compulsory labor in the shipping industry was adopted by the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC).
Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo announced that the UNHRC has "adopted by consensus" the resolution on promoting and protecting the enjoyment of human rights by seafarers during its 56th Session in Geneva on July 11.
Manalo said the Philippine initiative, which was shepherded by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) through the Philippine Mission in Geneva, and is so far co-sponsored by 28 countries, is the first-ever resolution on seafarers to be introduced and adopted in the UNHRC
He said the Philippines led the initiative as Filipinos are the largest nationality of maritime crew 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," Manalo said.
"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 added.
Under the resolution, shipping industry stakeholders are urged to respect the right of seafarers to the opportunity to gain their living by work that they freely choose or accept, including decisions on whether to sail or continue sailing in high-risk areas.
The resolution stressed that the "realization of this right should not negatively affect a seafarer’s employment competitiveness or future deployment."
It also urges states to continue efforts to eliminate all forms of forced or compulsory labour in the shipping industry.
"This resolution affirms that safe and decent living and working conditions at sea is a human rights imperative, and calls for stronger collaboration between States, shipowners’ representatives, seafarers’ representatives, the International Labor Organization, the International Maritime Organization, non-governmental organizations and other stakeholders to uphold and protect the rights and dignity of all seafarers around the world," Manalo said.
The DFA chief also said that the resolution highlights the need to foster a maritime industry where women are safe and their rights respected.
"The Philippines applauds this decision of the Human Rights Council," he said.
"As a seafaring nation with a considerable global diaspora, the Philippines will sustain its active engagement in the Council, the United Nations and all relevant international bodies, to contribute meaningfully to global efforts to set the highest standards to promote and protect the dignity and rights of migrants worldwide," he added.