Nominations open for International Maritime Prize

Celebrating contributions to the work of the IMO

Nominations for the 2024 Maritime Prize for contributions to the work of the International Maritime Organisation will close at the end of March with the winner being announced in July this year.

The prize is awarded to individuals or non-governmental organisations or bodies judged to have made the most significant contribution to the IMO’s work and objectives. Nominations can only be made by governments, organisations, specialised agencies, programmes and funds of the United Nations system; intergovernmental organisations in cooperation with IMO; and non-governmental organisations in consultative status with IMO.

In a circular calling for nominations, the IMO has encouraged the nomination of female candidates which is hardly surprising given that over 90% of the awards since 1980 have been received by males. With almost 50% of the awards going to European recipients during this time, the IMO should also be actively encouraging nominations from regions such as Africa, South America and other under-acknowledged countries.

The guidelines for the International Maritime Prize were circulated in December last year. The award was first established by the Council in 1978 with the aim to recognise the person, organisation or other entity that have made the most significant contribution to the work and objectives of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

These efforts may include initiatives to advance maritime safety, the wellbeing of seafarers, maritime security, the prevention of marine and atmospheric pollution by ships, shipping efficiency, maritime law or fostering international cooperation in maritime governance. The criteria stipulates that these contributions should be international within their scope.

Selection process

All nominations will be evaluated by a panel of judges that is appointed by the Secretary General and includes select members of the Executive of the IMO, two representatives of Council Member States and two representatives of a non-governmental organisation.

The strength of the nomination is key and should include as much detail as possible about the nominee’s contributions that are supported by references to publications, research, policies or other relevant initiatives.

The prize can be awarded posthumously, and the panel of judges may also recommend the granting of Letters of Recognition to nominees that did not win, but who nevertheless deserve recognition for their contributions.

Previous award

Captain Ian Finley, Permanent Representative of the Cook Islands to IMO, was selected as the recipient of the International Maritime Prize for 2023. As a delegate to IMO, representing Panama and latterly the Cook Islands, he has been an active participant in the development of virtually all safety, environmental and legal legislation adopted by the Organisation since 1995.

PHOTO: Captain Ian Finley receives the 2023 Maritime Prize.