This report is divided into four parts. It begins with an examination of some of the main changes which have occurred in world shipping and which have influenced the labour market and conditions of work and life of seafarers. It then examines some aspects of the labour market for seafarers as well as a number of changes which have had an impact on conditions of work. Another chapter reviews the current conditions of work and life in the shipping industry, concerning wages, hours of work, food, accommodation and welfare as well as certain issues such as gender and abandonment of seafarers, with particular emphasis on shipboard conditions. The report concludes with a summary and a list of suggested points for discussion.