The Importance of Ratifying Urgent Maritime Treaties

The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) and the Comité Maritime International (CMI) have recently launched an updated campaign to urge governments to ratify crucial maritime treaties. The need for legal certainty and uniformity in maritime law and regulations across different jurisdictions has become increasingly vital in today’s complex international landscape.

The CMI, established in 1897, consists of 53 national maritime law associations and numerous industry stakeholders as consultative members. It has played a significant role in drafting the majority of maritime law conventions over the years.

According to CMI’s president, Ann Fenech, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) serves as the global regulator for the industry. Fenech emphasizes the importance of a global regulator to ensure a level playing field and uphold the highest standards on a worldwide basis.

While regional regulations may address specific issues, Fenech argues that a global approach is necessary to prevent problems from shifting between different regions. The IMO and other UN agencies are seen as essential in setting global maritime regulations.

Despite the challenges, Fenech remains optimistic about the ratification of maritime treaties in 2025. The recent success of the convention on the international effects of judicial sales of ships, adopted by the UN General Assembly in Beijing, reflects progress in achieving global consensus.

Other international maritime conventions recommended for urgent ratification include the IMO Nairobi Convention on the Removal of Wrecks, the IMO Protocol to the International Convention on Liability and Compensation for Damage in Connection with the Carriage of Hazardous and Noxious Substances by Sea, and the IMO Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships.