In June 2025, the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships (Hong Kong Convention) will come into effect after Bangladesh and Liberia ratified the Convention on 26 June 2023.
Global Union, IndustriALL, has long campaigned to improve shipbreaking, the world's most dangerous occupation, a crucial part of which has been advocating for the international maritime organisations to ratify the Hong Kong Convention.
The Hong Kong Convention is an instrument promoting sustainable and responsible ship recycling practices. It addresses concerns regarding occupational health, safety, and the environment. Its objectives include protecting workers' well-being, preserving the marine environment, and establishing global standards for the ship recycling industry.
To enter into force, the Hong Kong Convention required ratification by at least 15 states, representing 40% of the world's merchant shipping tonnage and a combined annual ship recycling volume of at least 3% of their tonnage. With the participation of Liberia, one of the largest flag states, and Bangladesh, one of the largest ship recycling states, the ratification goal has been achieved.
Now that the conditions are met, the convention will be binding on the ratifying states within 24 months of their ratification.
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