Joint statement on seafarer protections: The Seafarers' Charter
Published 24 July 2023
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The United Kingdom (UK) and France are key allies, linked together by our deep maritime connections. For centuries, the maritime sector has supported economic trade between our two nations and kept us connected socially, particularly across the Channel, which remains as one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes.
Both governments recognise the important contribution of the seafarers who work on the vessels and services that keep our two nations connected and prosperous.
This joint statement demonstrates our commitment to improve the pay, employment protections, working conditions and welfare of seafarers. As part of that commitment, the UK and France are both legislating to ensure seafarers receive fair wages whilst working in territorial waters, and, investing in independent seafarer research to enhance the evidence base available for future seafarer welfare policy initiatives.
We will support those who work on the vital economic and trade links that connect us. We want to make clear that we will go further to protect seafarers. Seafarers must have fair pay, safe working conditions and high welfare standards. This is essential for attracting and retaining talent and skills in this vital sector.
To further support seafarer welfare, the United Kingdom and France are today (24 July 2023) launching Seafarers’ Charters. The charters support good quality seafarer employment and improve seafarer welfare and employment protections. Operators can evidence their commitment to seafarer welfare by applying for, or working towards, verified Seafarers’ Charter status.
We will continue to work together to improve the pay, employment protections, working conditions and welfare of seafarers; and we will continue to champion the rights of seafarers.
Baroness Vere, Minister for Aviation, Maritime and Security, United Kingdom
Hervè Berville, Secretary of State for the Sea, France
For more information, see the UK announces historic boost to seafarers’ rights and welfare news story.