- Barbados becomes the 40th ILO member State to ratify Convention No. 185.
GENEVA, Switzerland, (ILO News) – On 3 March 2025, Barbados deposited the instrument of ratification of the Seafarers’ Identity Documents Convention (Revised), 2003 (No. 185), as amended, with the director-general of the ILO, Gilbert F. Houngbo. In so doing, Barbados becomes the 40th ILO member state to ratify the Convention.
The issuance of electronic seafarers’ identity documents, with a technology similar to the one currently used in electronic passports, strongly contributes to facilitating seafarers’ access to shore leave as well as their transfer and transit while enhancing security in ports through the use of a secure and internationally recognized document.
In depositing the instrument of ratification, the Permanent Representative of Barbados to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva, H.E. Matthew Wilson, stated:
“As small island developing state with a large ocean footprint, Barbados is pleased to ratify the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Seafarers’ Identity Document Convention (Revised), 2003 – as Amended (No. 185). Tourism and international trade are the mainstays of our economy and fisheries is an important part of our food security. This is why we focus on the sustainable use of our ocean resources and the protection of all stakeholders. This was never more pronounced as during the COVID-19 Pandemic when our country implemented several measures to support seafarers including the Extension of Seafarers’ Certificates and Documents; the issuance of Medical Certificates, and Flexibility in Manning Requirements. Barbados’ ratification of this Convention is a testimony to our commitment to seafarers’ welfare and the continuity of maritime operations.”
In receiving the instrument of ratification, Gilbert Houngbo, “warmly congratulated the government of Barbados on the ratification of the Seafarers’ Identity Documents Convention (Revised), 2003 (No. 185). This milestone underscores Barbados’s strong commitment to upholding international labour standards, enhancing maritime security, and facilitating the movement of seafarers. By becoming the first country in the Caribbean region to ratify this Convention, Barbados sets a leading example in strengthening the protection of seafarers and ensuring their access to secure and verifiable identification. The ILO remains committed to supporting Barbados as it continues to advance decent work and reinforce its role as a key maritime nation in the shipping industry.”
The Convention will enter into force for Barbados on 3 September 2025, that is, six months after its ratification.