🚢 1. What is the IMO?

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations, established in 1948 and headquartered in London. Its primary role is to develop and maintain a regulatory framework for shipping that is safe, secure, environmentally sound, efficient, and sustainable.

Key Functions:

• Formulates global maritime standards

• Oversees implementation and compliance by member states

• Facilitates international cooperation and uniformity in maritime regulation

Website: https://www.imo.org

📜 2. Major IMO Conventions

The IMO governs several critical conventions that form the backbone of maritime regulation. Three of the most important are:

✅ a. SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea)

Adopted: 1974 (current version)
Purpose: To ensure minimum safety standards in ship construction, equipment, and operation.

Key Provisions:

• Life-saving appliances and fire protection

• Ship stability and structural requirements

• Mandatory safety drills and emergency procedures

• Requirements for passenger ships and cargo vessels

Example: After the Titanic disaster in 1912, SOLAS was developed to improve maritime safety protocols globally.

🌊 b. MARPOL (Marine Pollution)

Adopted: 1973 (modified by the 1978 Protocol)
Purpose: To prevent and minimize pollution of the marine environment from ships.

Annexes:

• Annex I: Oil pollution

• Annex II: Noxious liquid substances

• Annex III–VI: Harmful substances, sewage, garbage, and air pollution

Impact: MARPOL is the cornerstone of international marine environmental law and includes emission controls and discharge limitations.

👩‍✈️ c. STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers)

Adopted: 1978, with major amendments in 1995 and 2010 ("Manila Amendments")
Purpose: To ensure that seafarers are properly trained and certified for their duties onboard.

Key Features:

• Mandatory training and certification for deck and engine crew

• Watchkeeping standards to ensure safe manning

• Medical fitness, rest hours, and competency assessments

🧭 Summary

The IMO plays a vital role in unifying maritime laws and ensuring that shipping remains safe and environmentally friendly. Through conventions like SOLAS, MARPOL, and STCW, it establishes the standards that protect lives, vessels, and the marine environment worldwide.