- The Kingdom of Bahrain has officially ratified the Jeddah Amendment to the Djibouti Code of Conduct (DCoC-JA), demonstrating its commitment to combating piracy, armed robbery, and illicit maritime activities in the Western Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Aden.
- Bahrain’s Ambassador to the United Kingdom, H.E. Mr. Shaikh Fawaz Bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, deposited the instrument at the IMO Headquarters in London on March 6.
- By joining 17 other Signatory States, Bahrain contributes to developing a regional maritime security strategy, enhancing information-sharing networks, and reinforcing capacity-building programs.
- The Jeddah Amendment addresses various illicit activities, including IUU fishing, arms trafficking, narcotics trade, wildlife trafficking, crude oil theft, human trafficking, smuggling, and illegal waste dumping.
Bahrain’s ratification of the Jeddah Amendment aligns with a regional initiative to foster cooperation among Signatory States in combating maritime threats. The amendment builds upon the Djibouti Code of Conduct adopted in 2009 and significantly expanded in 2017 to address a broader range of illicit activities.
Common Maritime Security Strategy
Signatory States, now including Bahrain, collaborate to develop a common maritime security strategy. The focus extends beyond piracy and armed robbery to encompass issues such as IUU fishing, arms trafficking, and human trafficking. Regular meetings facilitate communication and coordination among participating countries.
Eight-Point Action Plan
In response to increased volatility and attacks in the Red Sea area, the Signatory States devised an eight-point action plan during an Extraordinary Session held in December 2023. The plan aims to enhance capacity in the region to effectively address maritime security threats.
IMO’s Support and “Whole of Government” Approach
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) provides support for the implementation of the DCoC-JA, collaborating with donor States. Signatory States embrace a “whole of government” approach, establishing national maritime security committees, developing risk registers, and formulating national maritime security strategies with IMO support.
Expanding Signatories
Bahrain’s participation marks a significant development, as it becomes the first Member State to join beyond the original signatories of the Djibouti Code of Conduct. Of the 20 Signatory States to the original DCoC, 17 have already signed up for the expanded DCoC-JA, illustrating a collective commitment to maritime security in the region.
