Seafarers’ Religion and Globalization

Abstract

Religion has a specific role in the development of international operations. Creating a framework for free development of religious beliefs on board vessel is essential for the wellbeing of practicant seafarers, as well as for the cohesion of the entire crew. The lack of such framework might lead to frustration or development of intolerant environments, raising concerns of safety risks for crew, as well as low productivity or cohesion. The paper’s novelty is related to the identification of religious references within Maritime Labor Convention (MLC) developed by the International Labor Organization (ILO) in relation to standardized specific instruments created by the International Standardization Organization (ISO). Results emphasize the interconnection between legal instruments (as the MLC) and ISO standards used as tools for globalized activities. The identified interconnected ISO standards should take into account religious aspects included in the MLC, necessary for the wellbeing and mental health of seafarers. In the paper is also emphasized the role of the Maritime labor Convention, 2006, as being a key instrument for fair globalization, as well as the indirect role of creating a safe and natural environment on board for religious activities.

Keywords

• international labour organisation
• maritime labour convention
• faith
• shipping