Legal Committee (LEG 112) - Opening remarks

ADDRESS OF THE SECRETARY-GENERAL AT THE OPENING OF THE 112TH SESSION OF THE LEGAL COMMITTEE (LEG 112), 24 to 28 March 2025

Delivered by IMO Secretary-General Mr. Arsenio Dominguez on 24 March, 2025.

Good morning distinguished delegates, 

Welcome to the 112th session of the Legal Committee. 

This week, you will focus on the critical issue of seafarers detained on suspicion of committing crimes. Unfortunately, incidents of unjust treatment of seafarers are on the rise, posing a significant challenge to the sustainability of  shipping. These cases not only undermine seafarers' morale but also discourage young talent from pursuing a career at sea. In response, the Committee is set to adopt the Guidelines on the fair treatment of seafarers detained in connection with alleged crimes, following their refinement and adoption by the Joint IMO-ILO Tripartite Working Group last November. 

I am actively working alongside the ILO, ITF, and other stakeholders, engaging with countries with established cases and the home nations of detained crew members to explore potential solutions. Your discussions and decisions this week will play a crucial role in these ongoing efforts. 

Regarding fraudulent ship registration and registries, I would like to stress that maintaining high-quality shipping standards is of the utmost importance to ensure the compliance with the IMO's regulatory framework and its enforcement. The Committee will be discussing a new proposed output to develop guidelines or best practices for ship registration, and I believe this is a timely opportunity to enhance performance and transparency related to the global compliance with IMO instruments.  

You will also discuss two more proposals to add new outputs to the work programme: one on the suitability of IMO liability and compensation regimes with respect to alternative fuels, and another on Measures to address maritime security threats. 

I would also like to remind you that following the conclusion of the Legal Committee on Friday, an IMO/ITLOS workshop will take place. Among other key topics, it will address ship registration, complementing the discussions held during this session of the Legal Committee. 

I am sure that with the guidance of the Chair and Vice-Chair, once elected, supported by the staff of the Legal Affairs and External Relations Division and other divisions, I am confident that you will be able to successfully achieve the objectives set for this session. 

I wish you success in your deliberations and I invite you all to join me and the Secretariat at the welcome reception in the Delegates' Lounge after the close of today's business. Furthermore, I invite you to participate in the IMO/ITLOS workshop on Friday at 2 pm.

Thank you.