IMO Council elections 2023

Overview 

This blog sheds light on the recent election for council member at IMO, where India secured a top position in category B. While this is significant news, many people may not fully grasp its implications. How does it impact us as seafarers, as a nation, or as part of the maritime fraternity? To address these questions and raise awareness about this noteworthy achievement, Capt.Gaurav Rana organized a session featuring insights from Capt.Gajanan Karanjikar and Captain Daniel Joseph.

Captain Gajanan is a global ambassador of sustainability, serving as the president of the All India Maritime Pirates Association and contributing to the blue economy as a social activist. With experience in the port and logistics sectors, he also shares his knowledge through teaching at various Indian Institutes of Management (IIM’s).

Captain Daniel Joseph, who works in DG Shipping in the Indian administration, has been a significant support to the seafaring community and played a crucial role as part of the Indian delegation in the IMO election. 

The details of the session is been covered in this blog, however you can check out the entire session on Youtube.

What is IMO council election and how many countries participate?

IMO is International Maritime Organization. It is governed by an Assembly, a Council, five main Committees and a number of Sub-Committees which support the work of the main technical committees. The Assembly is responsible for approving the work program, voting the budget and determining the financial arrangements of the Organization. The Assembly also elects the Council. Council has 40 members and is the executive organ of IMO and is basically responsible under the assembly. Council meets every six months and they do all the functions of the assembly before assembly endorses it. 

IMO currently has 175 member states and three associate members. Every country has voting rights if they are paying their dues as required by the charter of the IMO convention. If a country is not paying dues they don’t have right to vote. There were 8 countries which were not allowed to vote during the elections in Dec’23. 167 members voted in these elections. 

What are the various categories in the Council and is there any hierarchy to it?

There are 3 categories, category A, category B, and category C. There is no hierarchy. Each member of the council has right of one vote, and it is same for all. 

Category A has 10 member states with largest interest in providing international shipping services. It is related to shipping services. 

Category B is 10 states with largest international interest in international seaborne trade and 

Category C contains 20 member states which are not under A and B but which interests in maritime transport or navigation and whose election to the council will ensure that equal representation of all major geographic areas of the world are covered. 

How was India represented and in which category?

The journey towards positioning India as a leader in global representation began two years ago with a visionary approach from our predecessors, including ex-DG Amitabhji, additional DG, present DG, and present and previous secretaries, they had this vision that India should be the leader. Management’s vision was that India should be in the top, whichever category we stand for. Efforts were strategically initiated, involving meticulous representation, active participation in committees and subcommittees, and showcasing India's commitment to causes like seafarers' rights, criminalization, MEPC, and STCW.

The preparation extended beyond formal meetings to a diplomatic campaign, where cultural events and showcases were organized to familiarize global counterparts with India's rich heritage. A dedicated team worked tirelessly, creating alumni networks, connecting with influential committees, and maintaining constant communication with key stakeholders. The initiative extended to diplomatic channels, with letters written to high commissions, commissioners, and counterparts in 175 countries.

The pinnacle of these efforts culminated in a historic achievement at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) elections, where out of 163 votes, India secured an unprecedented 157 votes in favor, setting a world record. The overwhelming support from the international community and the resounding congratulatory messages reinforced the belief that India had rightfully earned its position at the top, a result of meticulous planning, strategic alliances, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Which category was India represented and how did India come into that category?

India was represented in category B where India's interest in the international seaborne trade is largest. International seaborne trade of India has improved tremendously and the economy, under the dynamic leadership of our honorable PM, has grown tremendously. In last so many years India is the most influential emerging economy and we just reached four trillion mark on the GDP and is expected to grow at 7% to reach USD 4.3 trillion in 2031. We are on so right track with that growth of the shipping, global shipping market and Indian economy. Since our interests are more into seaboard trade, we can be asset in that kind of group than providing shipping services. 

How does it impact the industry and actually affects the common maritime professional?

The recent recognition of India as a top leader in global maritime affairs is a significant milestone, placing us in a position of influence within the International Maritime Organization (IMO). This newfound status, achieved through strategic planning and representation, not only grants us a seat at the council but also positions India as a leader capable of steering IMO and fostering regional cooperation.

The achievement is marked by India's prominence across all categories—A, B, and C—with the highest number of votes, reflecting the positive impact of our efforts. The sense of pride and positivity is invaluable, and there is a collective determination to bring even those countries that did not initially vote for us into our fold. This victory is not just about championing the cause of seafarers; it extends to influencing international trade dynamics positively.

The acknowledgment by IMO, a key body directly associated with the UN, holds great significance for the growth of the Indian shipping industry. The recognition validates India's maritime plans, including initiatives like Sagarmala and port development, on the global stage.

Was India a council member before any time in IMO? And when was it? 

India has been a council member for long, since 1985. But for a few years, India were not there and elections were not there earlier. It was basically like, whoever stands, they used to nominate them. From around 10 years, they started having elections every two years. And since elections, India have been always been there. 

Conclusion

In summary the achievement of India is very valuable and will be rewarding for the entire maritime industry. Capt. Gajanan Karanjikar and Captain Daniel Joseph, provided valuable perspectives on this achievement. The blog outlines the structure of the IMO Council, India's representation in category B, and the impact on the industry. It underscores the global recognition of India's leadership role and the positive implications for the shipping industry's growth.

Image credits:- Marine Regulations News