Geopolitical conflicts have claimed the lives of seafarers and disrupted global food and energy supply chains. International Maritime Organization (IMO) Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez made the statement ahead of World Maritime Day.
World Maritime Day will be observed on September 24. This year’s theme is “From Policy to Practice: Powering Maritime Excellence.” It emphasizes the need to implement international maritime regulations effectively and achieve tangible improvements throughout the industry, particularly for people working at sea.
Dominguez said that supporting shipping and seafarers amid geopolitical instability, the energy transition, digitalization and other changes remains a priority for the IMO.
According to him, too many seafarers have been killed as a result of geopolitical conflicts. The Secretary-General stressed that the IMO’s thoughts are first and foremost with the affected seafarers and their families.
From International Regulations to Tangible Results
Conflicts affect not only ships’ crews but also global trade: growing risks to maritime security have disrupted food and energy supplies.
The IMO noted that international regulation can make shipping safer, more sustainable and more environmentally friendly only if it is effectively implemented worldwide. The implementation of requirements must benefit those for whom it matters most—people working at sea.
The IMO’s mission is to ensure that every Member State receives the support it needs to implement the organization’s regulations effectively. This is particularly important for seafarers because international requirements directly affect safety, working conditions, training, security and the industry’s environmental performance.
Priorities for the Next Decade
Over the next decade, the IMO intends to help all Member States take advantage of new opportunities while adapting to far-reaching changes in the maritime sector.
Key areas include the continued adoption of digital technologies, the transition to cleaner energy and expanding opportunities for women in shipping.
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