- Member States Raise Security Challenges and Treaty Progress.
- Seafarers Placed at the Heart of IMO’s Work.
- Assembly Recognises BBNJ Agreement and Advances Gender Inclusion.
According to Arsenio Dominguez, the Secretary-General of the IMO, the Assembly has shown remarkable unity and a shared sense of purpose over the past two weeks, reflecting the dedication that truly characterises the global maritime community. At the opening, delegates took a moment to emphasise how crucial collaboration and vision are in pushing the Organisation’s work forward. During last week’s general statements, many delegations reaffirmed their commitment to the IMO and the principles of multilateralism, reports Safety4Sea.
Key Issues Raised by Member States
Delegations brought up several urgent matters, such as the adverse effects of global security challenges on shipping, the progress on four new accessions to the HNS Protocols, and the ongoing need to ratify the Cape Town Agreement, along with the 2021 amendments to the IMO Convention. There was also a strong reaffirmation of support for the Net Zero Framework.
Seafarers at the Centre of IMO’s Work
At the core of these discussions were the world’s seafarers, whose skill and resilience underpin global trade and the functioning of the world economy. Dominguez emphasised their importance, stating that the Assembly’s decisions will strengthen their safety, welfare and working conditions. “At the heart of all these efforts remain the world’s seafarers. Their skill, resilience and dedication sustain global trade and the functioning of the world economy. The decisions taken by this Assembly will contribute to strengthening their safety, welfare and working conditions, and for that, I am grateful.”
Recognition of Global Measures and Inclusivity
The Assembly recognised significant global developments, including the recent enforcement of the Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreements. Progress in gender equality and diversity was highlighted, with one Member State even introducing maternity allowances for female seafarers, showing a commitment to creating a more inclusive maritime workforce. The Secretary-General also welcomed the Assembly’s decision to enhance multilingualism by adding Arabic as a working language, which reinforces the Organisation’s dedication to ensuring equitable participation.
Decisive Action Delivered
Reflecting on the outcome of the session, Dominguez praised the Assembly’s commitment to action. “When I opened this Assembly, I said that our collective energy would matter only if matched by decisive action. You have delivered that action.”
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Source: Safety4Sea
