Zonal Welfare Committee, ISWAN

A zonal (or port) welfare committee is a local body that coordinates seafarer-welfare services in a port or region, bringing together port authorities, shipowners, unions, chaplaincies, and welfare charities. ISWAN supports and networks these committees internationally. The Maritime Labour Convention 2006, Regulation 4.4 and Guideline B4.4.3 call on states to establish welfare boards at port, regional, and national levels to review needs and coordinate facilities. The committees plan welfare-center provision, transport, and ship-visiting rather than deliver pay or contracts.