The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has approved crucial amendments to the Seafarers' Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code to combat violence and harassment in the maritime sector.
Recognizing the urgent need to address bullying, sexual harassment, and sexual assault, the amendments were adopted at a recent IMO Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 108) meeting. Starting January 1, 2026, all seafarers will be required to undergo specific training aimed at preventing and responding to incidents on board.
The amendments outline new mandatory minimum requirements for basic training and instruction for all seafarers. These aim to equip seafarers with knowledge and understanding of violence and harassment, including sexual harassment, bullying and sexual assault.
The initiative follows recommendations from the Joint ILO/IMO Tripartite Working Group, which underscores the IMO's commitment to enhancing personal safety and social responsibilities at sea. The draft amendments were approved by MSC 107 and reviewed by the joint ILO/IMO Tripartite Working Group to Identify and Address Seafarers' Issues and the Human Element (JTWG), which met in February 2024.
The amendments will be included in table A-VI/1-4 (Specification of minimum standard of competence in personal safety and social responsibilities) of the STCW Code.
The full summary report of the MSC 108 meeting can be found here.