Belgium keeps its seat on IMO executive body
The IMO is a specialised subsidiary of the United Nations aiming to make global shipping safer and more environmentally-friendly. To achieve this, regular consultation between its 175 members takes place with the aim of reaching international regulations.
The General Assembly is the highest body of the organisation and includes all members. The Council is the executive body and consists of 40 members and carries out the agency’s work on behalf of the General Assembly.
On 10 December, the Council members for 2022-2023 were announced. Our country owes its re-election to the fact that a lot of relevant and important research for international shipping is conducted in Belgium. Some examples:
- Pilot projects on the use of alternative fuels;
- Development of autonomous and unmanned vessels; and
- Impact of underwater sounds on marine life.
Members of the IMO Council (2022-2023)
Category A: 10 countries with the largest interests within international shipping services
China, Greece, Italy, Japan, Norway, Panama, Russia, United Kingdom, United States and South Korea
Category B: 10 countries with the largest interests within international maritime trade
Australia, Brazil, Canada, Germany, France, India, the Netherlands, Spain, United Arab Emirates and Sweden
Category C: 20 countries with special interests within maritime transport or navigation
Bahamas, Belgium, Chile, Cyprus, Denmark, Egypt, Philippines, Indonesia, Jamaica, Kenya, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Morocco, Qatar, Saudi-Arabia, Singapore, Thailand, Turkey and Vanuatu.
Background information
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) was founded in 1948 and came into force in 1958. The organisation is headquartered in London.
As a maritime nation, Belgium attaches great importance to the maritime sector. Belgium has therefore been involved since the very beginning and has a long-term commitment within the organisation.
In addition, Belgium is a great defender of seafarers. That is why our country was one of the first to respond to IMO’s request to prioritise the vaccination of seafarers.