23rd of February 2026 marked 20 years since the adoption of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006).

The Cyprus Shipping Chamber, as the official representative of the Cyprus Shipping Industry, proudly joins the international shipping community in commemorating the 20th anniversary of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC2006), a landmark instrument that has fundamentally transformed the global shipping industry by establishing comprehensive standards for the working and living conditions of seafarers and which has rightly won the title of the most successful international maritime labour agreement ever implemented.

Since its adoption, MLC2006 has become widely recognised as the “fourth pillar” of the international maritime regulatory framework, complementing key safety and environmental conventions. Over the past two decades, it has played a pivotal role in promoting decent work at sea, safeguarding seafarers’ rights, and ensuring fair competition among shipowners through a harmonised global regime.

The Shipping Chamber has consistently supported the effective implementation of MLC2006, recognising that the welfare, dignity, and professionalism of seafarers are essential to the sustainability and resilience of the shipping industry. Cyprus, as one of the world’s leading maritime centres and flag states, has ratified the MLC2006 Convention in 2012 and has been a strong advocate of the Convention’s objectives, working closely with international organisations, shipowners, and social partners to uphold high labour standards.

For the Cyprus Shipping Chamber, the 20th anniversary of MLC2006 is an important reminder that seafarers are at the heart of global trade. Let us therefore, recognise and honour the efforts of Seafarers around the world, who play a vital role in world trade and truly contribute in ensuring a stable world economy and society.