The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is the United Nations specialized agency with responsibility for the safety and security of shipping and the prevention of marine pollution by ships.

The Bahamas has a strong representation at both the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and the International Labour Organisation (ILO), which gives our owners direct input into the regulatory process and brings their knowledge of best practice to the attention of all policy makers.

Together with the Bahamas High Commission in London, The BMA works to ensure that governmental representation at the IMO and ILO covers both diplomatic and technical matters. The Bahamas plays a leading role in shaping the technical, legal and administrative regulations produced by the IMO as well as being one of the IMO’s largest financial contributors.

The Bahamas has consistently submitted proposals aimed at strengthening safety measures, reducing the workload upon owners and masters, and has sought practical solutions to current safety issues.

Register online for free access to IMO resources made available to the public: click here

• IMO – Maritime Knowledge Centre
• IMO – International Maritime Law Institute
• IMO – World Maritime University

The Bahamas is a long-standing member of the Council of the IMO and has a dedicated maritime affairs department whose sole role is to provide active representation at both the IMO and the ILO.

The Council is the ultimate decision-making authority of the IMO and all of its owners benefit from this direct input into the regulatory process. The BMA has long played a leading role in shaping the technical, legal and administrative regulations produced by the IMO as well as being one of the IMO’s largest financial contributors.

The BMA has been instrumental in guiding significant legislation on a variety of issues, which are not limited to:

• greenhouse gas (GHG) strategy
• safety of embarkation arrangements
• ventilation of lifeboats
• safe carriage of industrial personnel
• revision of the code of safety for diving systems (resolution a.831 (19))
• the guidelines and specifications for hyperbaric evacuation systems (resolution a.692 (17))

This ensures the entire shipping industry benefits from The BMA’s wealth of expertise.

Through its active active participation at the IMO, The BMA ensures that the IMO’s core principles of safety and security at sea, preservation of the marine environment and professionalism of seafarers are not only adhered to globally but also at a regional level.

IMO Activities and Events

Forthcoming IMO events where the Bahamas Maritime Authority will be participating or present

Learn more