Students from the Environmental Law LLM, Human Rights Law LLM and Public International Law LLM programmes at Queen Mary University of London visited the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the specialised agency of the United Nations responsible for regulating maritime transport.
The visit to the IMO was organised by Malgosia Fitzmaurice, Professor of Public International Law, and Dr Andrew Pitt, Lecturer in Law, at Queen Mary. Alejandra Biaggi, an LLM student who went on the visit, tells us about her experience:
"On 14 October 2024, myself and a group of postgraduate law students from Queen Mary University of London had the unique opportunity to visit the International Maritime Organization (IMO) headquarters as part of an educational trip organized to deepen our understanding of international maritime governance. The visit provided a first-hand experience of the vital role the IMO plays in regulating the shipping industry and ensuring maritime safety and environmental protection.
Upon arrival at the IMO, we were warmly welcomed by Mike Guy, the organization's External Relations Officer, who led the group on an insightful tour of the building. The tour began with a walk through the history of the IMO, from its inception in 1948 to its evolution into the world's premier authority on maritime regulation. As the tour progressed, we were shown various areas of the headquarters, including the assembly hall, where representatives from 176 member states gather to discuss and make decisions on maritime policies.
Following the tour, we were treated to a comprehensive presentation by Dorota Lost-Siemińska, Director of the Legal Affairs and External Relations Division. Her talk was a highlight of the visit, offering in-depth insights into the legal framework that underpins the IMO’s work. Dorota discussed the extensive network of international treaties that the IMO oversees, such as the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL). The presentation also touched on the broader external relations aspects of the IMO, focusing on how the organization works closely with other UN agencies, regional bodies, and non-governmental organizations. This cooperation ensures a unified approach to global maritime challenges, including climate change, piracy, and the need for sustainable shipping practices. I was particularly interested in learning about the IMO's ongoing efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from ships, a key focus in the battle against global warming. The presentation concluded with a lively Q&A session, where we had the chance to ask about the complexities of international law, enforcement mechanisms, and the role of technology in the maritime industry.
Lastly, we were shown the rooftop terrace to take in an incredible view of the Houses of Parliament and, of course, the iconic Big Ben. By the end of the visit, my classmates and I were left with a much deeper understanding of the vital work being done at the IMO. The tour and presentation not only expanded our knowledge of maritime law and governance but also inspired many to explore careers within this dynamic and globally impactful field.
On behalf of Queen Mary, we thank you for this wonderful experience!"
LLM student Leneka Terika Rhoden had this to say about the visit:
"The experience of visiting the IMO was truly eye-opening. The tour of the facility and seeing the incredible country gifts and signature pieces on display left a lasting impression.
One key takeaway was learning about the IMO’s critical role as a regulator in the maritime industry, which aligns with my passion for policy and regulations. Their function of overseeing such a vital sector, which connects the world through trade and transport, highlights the significant responsibilities they carry in ensuring safety, sustainability, and fair operations globally.
I was pleasantly surprised by the depth of their work, especially how they incorporate principles like the precautionary approach and the polluters pay principle. They have forward-thinking measures needed to protect our oceans and global environments while holding stakeholders accountable.
What truly inspired me was hearing about their ongoing efforts to green operations within the sector."
Following this visit, the students have been invited to participate in the meetings of the Legal Committee of the IMO next March as observers.