For discussion at the Third meeting of the Joint ILO–IMO Tripartite Working Group to identify and address seafarers’ issues and the human element (Geneva, 26–28 November 2024).
Seafarers are recognized as a special category of worker and, given the global nature of the shipping industry and the different jurisdictions that they may be brought into contact with, need special protection, especially in relation to contacts with public authorities. The objective of these Guidelines is to ensure that seafarers detained on suspicion of committing a crime are treated fairly during any investigation and detention by public authorities, and that detention is for no longer than necessary, in accordance with the laws of the port or coastal States.
