Azerbaijan explores ratification of Maritime Labour Convention

BAKU (ILO News) – The International Labour Organization (ILO) Office for Eastern Europe and Central Asia, with the technical support of the Maritime Unit of the International Labour Standards Department (NORMES), conducted a mission to Azerbaijan from 18 to 19 June 2026 to support national discussions on the possible ratification of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006, as amended (MLC, 2006), and to identify practical pathways towards its implementation.

© ILO

© ILO

During the mission, the ILO delegation met representatives of the State Maritime and Port Agency, Azerbaijan Caspian Shipping Company (ASCO), the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of the Population, the Azerbaijan Trade Unions Confederation (AHIK) and the National Confederation of Entrepreneurs (Employers) (ASK).

The discussions covered the objectives and requirements of the MLC, 2006, the benefits of ratification and the legal, institutional and operational considerations for its implementation. Particular attention was given to the respective roles of the different national institutions and social partners in supporting a future ratification process.

© ILO

© ILO

The meetings resulted in broad agreement on possible next steps towards ratification, including undertaking a gap analysis to assess the compatibility of the existing legal and institutional framework with the requirements of the Convention and to identify areas where technical assistance from the ILO could facilitate national decision-making.

Representatives of the Government, employers and workers expressed their support for continuing the dialogue on the MLC, 2006 and for pursuing a structured and collaborative process towards possible ratification.

The Maritime Labour Convention, 2006, as amended, is the principal international labour standard governing the working and living conditions of seafarers. It establishes comprehensive minimum standards relating to conditions of employment, accommodation, food and catering, health protection, medical care, welfare and social protection, while also contributing to fair competition and decent work in the international maritime sector.