BlueRights Conference Highlights Need for Strengthened Enforcement of MLC 2006

Following the BlueRights International Conference on the Protection of Health at Sea in March, organiser Prof. Dr Senka Šekularac-Ivošević is calling for holistic solutions to the current gaps in ensuring seafarers’ human rights are met.

Frequent cases of crew abandonment, non-payment of wages, poor living conditions, and serious consequences for seafarers’ mental health demonstrate that the gap between regulations and reality remains significant. “Physical health, mental health, nutrition, safe working conditions, and legal protections must be addressed in a unified and coordinated manner,” she said, highlighting the need for an approach that also reflects contemporary challenges such as geopolitical instability, climate change, economic inequalities, and rapid technological transformation.

The conference brought together multidisciplinary experts and stakeholders from 39 countries with the aim of improving regulations, raising awareness, and providing practical tools for ensuring more effective protection of people at sea. The presentations covered a spectrum of issues, with particular emphasis on the interconnection between legal, organisational, and social factors.

Issues such as stress, organisational culture, labour relations, and the role of family and social support in maintaining seafarers’ well-being were emphasised, and the need to develop healthy organizational models and preventive approaches to mental health within maritime companies was