IMO Council promotes transparency of meetings and gender equality at its session

The Council of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) held its 132nd session in London from 8 to 12 July 2024. Finland participated in the session for the first time as a full member since its election to the IMO Council in December 2023.

The Council discussed various issues including the transparency of IMO meetings and adopted a decision to allow the public to follow Council sessions in real time in future. Until now, the sessions have been closed to the public unless the Council has decided otherwise. From the November Council session onwards the sessions will be public meetings unless the Council decides that a matter will be considered behind closed doors. 

All IMO meetings were held remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic. After the pandemic, IMO trialled an option for participants to attend meetings remotely as well as onsite, but now the trial period is ending. The decision to continue to provide the option of remote participation supports the possibility to attend meetings, especially for representatives of small island developing states and the least developed countries. It will also allow a greater number of experts to participate in meetings. 

Council emphasises gender equality

The Council emphasised gender equality and supported the introduction of ethical principles on anti-harassment at IMO meetings and events. The Council also stressed that more women should be nominated for IMO’s International Maritime Prize. Established in 1980, the prize is awarded to distinguished candidates who have contributed to the work of IMO. Only two women have received the prize so far. 

In 2023, the International Maritime Prize was awarded to Captain Ian Finley, Permanent Representative of the Cook Islands to IMO, for his life’s work for the benefit of shipping. He started his career as a seafarer already in 1961 and has been a delegate to IMO for more than three decades. Finland supported Finley’s nomination for the prize.

The session also discussed the Organisation’s budget and financial situation as usual. Finland emphasises the importance of a sustainable approach in which costs are in balance with the available resources. 

The Council also took note of the progress of the IMO Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS). Through its audit scheme, IMO aims to ensure that Member States meet their international obligations and develop their maritime administration. Finland will be audited in October 2024.

IMO plays a key role in developing international rules for maritime transport. The Council, consisting of IMO Member States, provides comprehensive guidance for the Organization’s work between the Assembly sessions.

Currently, IMO has 176 Member States. Finland has been a Member since 1959 and has been elected as a Member of the Council for 2024–2025.

Next steps 

The IMO Council will next meet in London on 18–22 November 2024.

Inquiries:

Jani Haapsaari, Senior Specialist, Ministry of Transport and Communications, tel. +358 295 342 067, [email protected]

Anita Mäkinen, Deputy Permanent Representative of Finland to IMO, Finnish Transport and Communications Agency (Traficom), tel. +358 401 624 592, [email protected]