Labour Ministry Backs Seafarers’ Rights Law
Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security has backed efforts to integrate the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), 2006, into national law, aiming to strengthen legal protections and working conditions for seafarers.
The announcement followed discussions with the Sierra Leone Maritime Administration (SLMA) on giving the international treaty full legal effect domestically.
SLMA Deputy Executive Director Emmanuel B.A. Lansana highlighted progress in updating maritime legislation, noting that the Merchant Shipping Act 2026 passed in June and signed by the President on September 3, 2026 already incorporates several key MLC provisions.
However, supporting regulations remain under development, and additional legislation is needed to fully integrate the convention into national law.
The MLC establishes global standards for employment rights, welfare, and working conditions at sea. Complete domestication will build a robust statutory framework protecting maritime workers.
To ensure comprehensive coverage, the SLMA committed to partnering with the Labour Ministry and the International Labour Organization (ILO) to draft a dedicated MLC Act.
Labour Minister Umaru Napoleon Koroma welcomed the initiative and proposed forming a joint multi-agency committee to draft a roadmap and oversee implementation.
Next steps include drafting a concept paper, conducting technical consultations, and holding follow-up sessions ahead of key meetings with the ILO scheduled for June 2027.
This inter-agency effort establishes a clear path toward enshrining international labor standards into national legislation, ensuring stronger safeguards for Sierra Leonean seafarers.
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