IMO/ITLOS Workshop

The IMO and International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) joint Workshop featured discussions on the ITLOS Advisory Opinion on Climate Change and the Ocean, essential aspects of ITLOS case law and procedures related to the arrest of vessels, as well as fraudulent registration and due diligence in ship registration. The event took place on 28 March 2025 at IMO Headquarters, 4 Albert Embankment, London, SE1 7SR.

• Please find a recording of the event here

• Please find the photos of the event here

Established by the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, ITLOS plays a crucial role in the interpretation and application of the Convention.

The Workshop aimed to promote dialogue on enhancing the enforcement of regulations at sea, particularly concerning vessel arrests, prompt release, fraudulent registration and fraudulent registries of ships. Focusing on a forward-looking approach to maritime law, the Workshop highlighted the importance of international collaboration in adapting to climate challenges and technological advancements.

Programme

Please find the provisional programme here.

The programme included:

Opening remarks

• Mr. Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary-General, IMO
  

Keynote speech - The ITLOS Advisory Opinion on Climate Change and the Ocean 

• Mr. Tomas Heidar, President, ITLOS

Panel on Arrest of vessels: Key aspects of ITLOS case law and procedures

• The right of the flag State to make claims in respect of arrested vessels: the concept of "ship as a unit"
  
• Procedural aspects: provisional measures and prompt release of vessels and crews
  

Panel on Registration of vessels

• Nationality and registration of ships
  
• Fraudulent registration and fraudulent registries of ships
  
• Due diligence in ship registration - Member States' perspective 
  

Reception (5.30 pm)