The Law of the Sea

"Every State shall require the master of a ship, in so far as they can do so without serious damage to the ship, the crew, or the passengers, render assistance to any person found at sea in danger of being lost and to proceed with all possible speed to the rescue of persons in distress, if informed of the need of assistance. Every coastal State shall promote the establishment, operation and maintenance of an adequate and effective search and rescue service regarding safety on and over the sea and, where circumstances so require, by way of mutual regional arrangements cooperate with neighbouring States for this purpose. This obligation to provide assistance applies regardless of the nationality or status of such persons or the circumstances in which they are found. The owner, the charterer, the company operating the ship, or any other person shall not prevent or restrict the master of the ship from taking or executing any decision which, in the master's professional judgement, is necessary for safety of life at sea and protection of the marine environment. Asylum seekers and refugees are prohibited from being expelled or returned in any manner whatsoever to the frontiers of territories where their life or freedom would be threatened on account of their race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion.”