bekvämlighetsflagg

A bekvämlighetsflagg, often translated as "flag of convenience" or "flag of registry," is a maritime practice where a ship is registered in a country different from its owner's country of domicile or nationality. This allows the shipowner to benefit from the laws, regulations, and tax incentives of the chosen registration country.

The primary motivations for using a bekvämlighetsflagg include lower taxes, reduced labor costs due to less stringent manning requirements and wage regulations, and more flexible operational rules. Countries that offer these flags, often referred to as open registries, compete to attract ship registrations by providing these advantages.

While bekvämlighetsflagg schemes offer economic benefits to shipowners and can contribute to the global shipping trade, they have also faced criticism. Concerns are often raised regarding labor standards for seafarers, environmental regulations, and the potential for reduced oversight and accountability. International bodies like the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) actively campaign for improved conditions for seafarers working on ships registered under bekvämlighetsflagg. Despite these debates, the practice remains widespread in the international shipping industry.