Search and rescue

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Seafarers are recognized as a special category of worker and many countries have designated them as key workers in accordance with the adoption of a joint statement by the International Labour Organization (ILO), the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

Given the global nature of the shipping industry and the different jurisdictions with which seafarers may be brought into contact, they need special protection, especially in relation to contacts with public authorities. The objective of these Guidelines is to ensure that seafarers detained on suspicion of committing a crime are treated fairly during any investigation and detention by public authorities, and that detention is for no longer than necessary.