Cuba becomes ninth Latin American country to ratify the MLC, 2006

The move makes Cuba the 113th member of the International Labour Organization to ratify the landmark convention and the ninth country in Latin America to do so. The ratification reinforces Cuba’s commitment to strengthening protections for seafarers and upholding international labour standards in the maritime sector.

The ratification by Cuba of the Maritime Labour Convention is a further demonstration of our firm commitment to the protection of labour rights and to the ILO. We are pleased to do so in the context of the 20th Anniversary of this important Convention.

…the Minister of Labour and Social Security of Cuba, Jesús Otamendiz Campos, noted. 

The MLC, 2006, is the fourth pillar of the international regulatory regime for the maritime sector. Its provisions cover all aspects relating to the working and living conditions of seafarers on board and establish a detailed mechanism for the inspection and certification of ships that is now universal in scope.

The MLC, 2006 will enter into force for Cuba on 12 June 2027, that is one year after its ratification.

 I congratulate the Government of Cuba on this ratification, which demonstrates its commitment to promoting decent work at sea and making it a reality both for Cuban seafarers and for all those who call at the country’s ports. The Office will provide the Government and the social partners with the necessary assistance for the full implementation of the Convention.

…said Gilbert Houngbo, ILO Director-General, upon receiving the instrument of ratification by Cuba.