International Maritime Organization (IMO) Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez has highlighted key items on the IMO agenda for 2025.
In a video message, Secretary-General Dominguez said:
"We begin 2025 focusing on three main topics, as we did last year.
"The first is seafarers, the second is global security, and the third is decarbonization. When it comes to seafarers, we need to enhance the safety and security of the key personnel on board ships. We must also focus on increasing the support we provide to them, not only in terms of decarbonization but also in reducing the criminalization of seafarers and promoting diversity.
"We have made progress, particularly in terms of gender in the maritime sector, but the reality is that there is still more work to be done. I will remain firm in my commitment and policy of not participating in or engaging in panels where there is no female representation.
"This is a big year for the IMO, and I remain optimistic that Member States and stakeholders will find common ground and adopt the technical and economic measures that will enable the sector to meet the objectives set out in the 2023 GHG strategy, aiming to decarbonize the sector by or around 2050. We are also focusing on the sustainability of the oceans. For the IMO, the theme for World Maritime Day 2025 is: 'Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity.'
"Join me in shaping a successful and memorable year for the IMO."
