Implementation challenges for seafarers’ social security protection: The case of the European Union

Abstract

In a world of competing flag States and short‐term employment, enjoying the benefits provided by a social security system is a difficult, if not impossible, task for many seafarers. The Maritime Labour Convention, 2006, has abandoned the flag State principle in favour of the residence principle for that reason. This article addresses the implementation challenges of this approach by examining the European Union case, and highlights the advantages of the residence principle in terms of administrative efficiency and effectiveness, enhanced coordination between social security contributions and personal income tax in cross‐border situations, and better use of State aid measures.

Fishermen’s Health and Safety in the Northern Tunisian Region (Southeast Mediterranean Sea): Risk Assessment

“…Like other workers, fishermen are entitled to humane work practices. The International Organization Maritime Labour Convention, 2006, as amended states (Article IV) that "Every seafarer has the right to: a safe and secure workplace that complies with safety standards; fair terms of employment; decent working and living conditions on board ship; health protection, medical care, welfare measures and other forms of social protection" [31]. Employers' affiliation to social security schemes is compulsory for all workers.…”

“…Safety at sea is a particularly sensitive issue in developing countries for several reasons. The comparatively smaller size of the maritime workforce, besides the relative invisibility of this labor group lead to a situation where their social rights remain less discussed than other vulnerable groups [31]. Appropriate reporting systems do not exist for injuries at sea, and injuries often go unreported [1].…”