The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has commenced its 129th session, bringing together representatives from member states across the globe. The event, taking place from July 17th to 21st, 2023, will focus on key matters affecting the maritime industry.
A significant highlight of this session is the election of the new IMO Secretary-General, who will lead the organization’s efforts in promoting sustainability, environmental stewardship, and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions within the shipping sector. The incoming Secretary-General, succeeding Kitack Lim, will play a pivotal role in shaping the IMO’s future work for the next biennium and beyond.
Seven member states have nominated candidates for the position of Secretary-General, as the term of the current incumbent, Kitack Lim from the Republic of Korea, concludes on December 31, 2023. The nominees are Moin Uddin Ahmed of Bangladesh, Suat Hayri Aka of Turkey, Arsenio Antonio Dominguez Velasco of Panama, Cleopatra Doumbia-Henry of Dominica, Nancy Karigithu of Kenya, Minna Kivimäki of Finland, and Zhang Xiaojie of China.
The election is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, July 18, 2023, at the IMO headquarters. The voting process will be conducted by secret ballot, and multiple rounds may be required, as stated by the IMO.
The newly appointed Secretary-General of the IMO will bear the immense responsibility of steering the industry forward, particularly in light of the recently agreed-upon targets under the 2023 Strategy on the Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Shipping. The successful candidate will be at the forefront of implementing and advancing this strategy, navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. An important aspect of their mission will involve devising effective incentives for ship operators to reduce fuel consumption and transition to alternative fuels.
During the session’s opening, Secretary-General Lim acknowledged the achievements and progress made in the first half of 2023, highlighting the exceptional cooperation and collaboration among member states and industry representatives in reaching this historic milestone. He emphasized that the election of the new Secretary-General, along with the development of the Strategic Plan for 2024-2029, will lay the foundation for further decarbonization initiatives and sustainable policies within the IMO.
Apart from the selection of the Secretary-General, the Council will also discuss budgetary matters and evaluate the trial period of hybrid capabilities, which explore the potential for a combination of in-person and virtual participation in IMO meetings. Furthermore, the session will underscore the importance of enhancing multilingualism within the organization to promote effective communication and understanding among member states.
Secretary-General Lim expressed awareness of the challenges posed by inflation and emphasized the organization’s efforts to maintain a practical budget. He aims to strike a balance that acknowledges the budgetary difficulties faced by all while ensuring the Secretariat can continue delivering its expanding work program. Additionally, the IMO eagerly awaits feedback and recommendations on the future prospects of the hybrid approach to meetings.
The 129th session of the IMO’s Council sets the stage for critical discussions and decisions that will shape the future of the maritime industry, driving it towards a sustainable and environmentally conscious path.
