Complexities of Seafarers and Regulatory Frameworks- A Critical Analysis

Abstract

Article Type: Research Paper
Purpose: Seafarers contribute significantly in maritime boundaries but they face legal issues
that has received little focus in the real Maritime world. The Maritime Labour Convention was
one of the most foremost legislations which protected the rights of the seafarers. International
shipping accounts for a major percentage of the World Trade amounting to 95% for both the
essential and risk work force. The Seamen are exposed to harsh weather conditions and at the
same time their normal routine includes physical labour and also the mental trauma as they are
kept aloof from their family and friends. The purpose of this paper is to examine the issues of
the seafarers faced at sea and to analyse effectiveness of the International Conventions
supporting them.
Design, Methodology and approach: International Conventions provide for effective measures
based on mutual cooperation between national and international bodies as a result of which
countries are working in mutual cooperation among themselves to improve the living
conditions for the seafarers. But the abuse of the seafarers is continuous in practice as they are
forced to lead harsh life conditions and international standards of labour rights are not made
applicable on them. There are also issues pertaining to the human rights of the seafarers and
the research paper focuses on bringing attention to all the regulations, injuries and inhuman
conditions that are faced by the seafarers.
Findings: Various International laws and the legal provisions are proving to be of little use that
are being formed by the international bodies and they fail to address the various problems that
are being faced by them. The International Maritime laws and the International Labour
Organisation have to make amendments in legal frameworks for promoting the interest of the
seafarers and Maritime Sea workers.
Practical Implications: The paper provides for harsh ground reality of the seafarers and is useful
in policy formulations and other similar research work.
Originality, Value: The research paper provides for the amendments to be made in International
Maritime laws and the International Labour Organisation for promoting the interest of the
seafarers and Maritime Crew members.