Shenzhen’s first dedicated agency to protect seafarers’ rights officially opened on Oct. 23 in Yantian District.

The Shenzhen Seafarers’ Rights Protection Service Center was set up jointly by seven municipal and district bodies, including the Shenzhen Municipal Maritime Safety Administration, the Shenzhen Municipal Justice Bureau, the Shenzhen Municipal Human Resources and Social Security Bureau, the Yantian District People’s Government and the Shenzhen Federation of Trade Unions.

The center aims to efficiently resolve disputes, fully safeguard lawful rights and optimize the overall service system.

Operating through a dedicated “seafarer” window at the Yantian District Public Legal Service Center, it will deliver in-person, professional support to seafarers. Services will include policy consultation, legal aid, dispute mediation, and rights protection.