The Manila Declaration on Seafarers’ Human Rights, Safety, and Well-being was presented at an international conference held in Manila from September 1-3, 2025. Philippine officials, including Ambassador to the UN Carlos Sorreta, Ambassador to the UK Teodoro Locsin Jr., and Maritime Industry Authority Administrator Sonia Malaluan, championed the declaration, which has garnered support from 14 countries, including Bangladesh, Germany, Malaysia, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom.
This declaration underscores the essential role of seafarers in global commerce and highlights the myriad risks they face while working and living at sea. It articulates a collective responsibility among maritime stakeholders to protect and empower seafarers, ensuring that their rights are acknowledged and upheld at all times. The declaration stresses that human rights cannot be compromised, whether on land or at sea, aligning with the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and various international treaties.
To uphold these rights, the declaration calls for enhanced social dialogue among stakeholders, robust enforcement mechanisms, and collaboration. It emphasizes the necessity of cooperation to ensure the respect, protection, and promotion of seafarers’ human rights. Key to this initiative is the enforcement of the Maritime Labor Convention 2006 and improved emergency preparedness, ensuring seafarers can earn their livelihoods in safe and fair working conditions.
Moreover, the Manila Declaration seeks to integrate human rights into the global maritime industry, promoting gender equality and inclusivity while adapting to technological advancements. This includes fostering technical cooperation and capacity-building in maritime education, addressing new realities in the industry.
During the conference, MARINA Administrator Sonia Malaluan described the declaration as a “guiding compass for collective action,” urging governments, industry groups, and international organizations to align their efforts around human rights, inclusivity, and principles that support a just transition in maritime work. The initiative aims not just to protect current seafarers but also to create a sustainable and equitable future for those in the industry.
In summary, the Manila Declaration represents a crucial milestone in recognizing and advocating for the rights of seafarers, aiming for a collaborative approach that ensures their dignity, safety, and well-being in a constantly evolving global environment. As more countries continue to join this initiative, it becomes a vital platform for advancing the human rights agenda in maritime sectors worldwide.
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