From "Rights of Man" to "Rights of Seaman" ....An Odyssey

Thomas Paine, in his influential work "Rights of Man," advocated for the recognition and protection of fundamental rights for all individuals. While Paine did not specifically address seafarers' rights in his writings, the principles he espoused align with the core values underlying the rights of seafarers.

- Capt. Ramji S Krishnan Sloan Fellow, London Business School

Paine's central argument revolved around the idea that every individual possesses inherent rights that should be safeguarded by governments. These rights include the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Similarly, seafarers, as human beings, possess fundamental rights that should be respected and protected. And in any case, a Shore Leave can always be termed to be in Pursuit of Happiness!!

The rights of seafarers, as enshrined in various international conventions and regulations, share common ground with the principles advocated by Paine. For example, the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006), emphasizes the entitlement of seafarers to decent working and living conditions, fair treatment, and access to essential services and protections. These provisions align with Paine's vision of securing the rights and well-being of individuals.

Moreover, both Paine's principles and seafarers' rights recognize the importance of equal treatment and non-discrimination. Paine argued that all individuals, regardless of their social status or background, should be afforded the same rights and opportunities. Similarly, seafarers' rights call for fair treatment, regardless of nationality, race, or gender.