- A recent conference in Houston, co-hosted by BIMCO, INTERPORTPOLICE, INTERMANAGER, the World Shipping Council, and Northeast Maritime Institute, addressed the surge in drug smuggling via ships and mistreatment of seafarers.
- With over 20 panelists, the conference emphasized the need for improved law enforcement-trade cooperation to counter escalating challenges in the maritime industry.
On January 9, BIMCO, INTERPORTPOLICE, INTERMANAGER, the World Shipping Council, and Northeast Maritime Institute organized a conference in Houston to discuss the alarming increase in drug smuggling via ships and the mistreatment of seafarers.
Conference Insights
Titled “Fostering Law Enforcement/Trade Cooperation,” the conference featured over 20 panelists, including representatives from shipowners, P&I Clubs, law enforcement agencies, INTERPOL, and the UN Office on Drugs & Crime. Insights revealed an all-time high in cocaine production, posing significant challenges to shipowners and seafarers as crime networks become more organized and violent.
Key Issues Identified
Panelists highlighted the pressing need for governments to share information on smugglers’ tactics and high-risk areas. Unfair treatment of seafarers discovering drugs on their ships and the necessity to update existing IMO guidance were also identified as crucial issues.
Private Sector’s Role
Discussions delved into the private sector’s role in law enforcement, emphasizing improved cooperation between governments and the industry. The impact of drug smuggling on recruitment was also explored, concluding that the industry has a responsibility to enhance seafaring’s attractiveness and safety.
Comprehensive Sessions
In addition to the conference, various sessions addressed learning from other sectors, the importance of information sharing, and leveraging technology to combat drug smuggling. The sessions underscored the necessity for flexible regulations, enhanced seafarer training, and protecting seafarers from undue consequences.
Proposal to IMO
Co-organizers will submit a proposal to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to review and update existing guidance. The objective is to reduce drug smuggling on ships, safeguarding seafarers, shipowners, and societies.
Upcoming IMO Facilitation Committee Meeting
The issue will be presented and discussed at the IMO’s Facilitation Committee meeting on April 8-12, 2024. The aim is to formally include the issue on the IMO’s agenda, addressing the implications of drug smuggling on seafarers and shipping.
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Source: Bimco
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