The International Transport Workers’ Federation announced that Dominica, The Gambia and Niue have been added to its long-standing Flags of Convenience list. This update marks an important moment for seafarer rights, maritime safety, flag compliance and wider shipping regulation across global fleets.
New Registries Added After Year-Long Monitoring
A recent meeting in Athens brought together unions representing seafarers and dock workers. During the session, members reviewed the three registries after monitoring them throughout the year. Following the review, the committee confirmed their addition to the list. With these three new entries, the list now covers 48 flags.
The federation reminded flag states that collecting registration fees comes with a responsibility to uphold crew protections. A global network of inspectors will continue to check vessel conditions and ensure that crews receive the rights they are entitled to.
Why These Flags Were Added
A vessel receives the FOC label when it sails under a flag different from its actual ownership. Each of the three registries met the criteria for different reasons.
The Gambia
The registry expanded quickly. It moved from zero tankers in 2023 to more than 35 by early 2025. Many of these vessels were linked to trades facing strict scrutiny. Although the registry now says it is vetting applications, the sudden growth triggered concerns.
Niue
This registry opened in 2012. It now includes 59 confirmed vessels with ownership spread across several Asian markets and one from Europe. The broad ownership base contributed to its classification.
Dominica
The registry lists 43 ships. Of these, 30 have ownership ties across regions including the Gulf, South Asia, Central Asia, North America and Europe. The diverse footprint aligns with the criteria used to assess open registries.
Minimum Standards for Crews on FOC Vessels
Open-registry vessels make up nearly one-third of the world’s merchant fleet. Because of this, unions have created minimum standards to safeguard those working on these ships. These standards guide collective bargaining agreements that set wages and working conditions for crews. Almost half of all FOC vessels follow these agreements.
A network of more than one hundred inspectors and local contacts in major ports monitors compliance. Their work ensures that crews receive fair treatment regardless of a vessel’s flag or ownership.
A Long Campaign Continues
The Fair Practices Committee oversees the entire FOC campaign, which first began in Oslo in 1948. Since then, the campaign has adapted to changes in global shipping, flagging practices and ownership patterns. The addition of Dominica, The Gambia and Niue reflects that ongoing effort to maintain stronger protections and higher standards across the maritime sector.
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free — Click here to Subscribe!
Source: ITF
