World Maritime Day 2024 will be observed tomorrow under the theme “Navigating the future: safety first!” This theme underscores the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) commitment to promoting maritime safety and security while safeguarding the marine environment. It also emphasizes the need for regulatory advancements to keep pace with rapid technological changes and innovations.
The IMO stated that this year’s theme would help focus attention globally on the various safety regulatory concerns associated with new technologies and alternative fuels, including measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from ships. The organization aims to maintain and potentially enhance the safety and efficiency of shipping to ensure the seamless flow of international maritime trade.
As the United Nations agency responsible for overseeing global shipping, the IMO has prioritized safety since its establishment in 1948. Additionally, 2024 marks the 50th anniversary of the adoption of the 1974 Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention, a crucial IMO treaty for regulating maritime safety.
IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez reflected on the importance of the SOLAS Convention in establishing international safety standards for ship design, equipment, and operations, which have played a vital role in preventing maritime disasters and saving lives. He emphasized that this year’s theme urges collective efforts to keep up with the ongoing transformations in the shipping industry.
In Fiji, the Maritime Safety Authority has organized an essay contest for high school students in Years 9-13 to celebrate World Maritime Day 2024. The winners will be announced during the celebrations in Suva on Friday.