BUSAN: The World Maritime Day Parallel Event in the Republic of Korea promoted the 2026-2027 theme, “From Policy to Practice: Powering Maritime Excellence”, and provided a platform to showcase IMO’s work while bringing together key maritime stakeholders.
International delegates meeting in Busan, Republic of Korea (26 to 27 October) called for stronger national action and international cooperation to ensure global shipping regulations are effectively implemented.
Co-organized by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the Republic of Korea’s Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, the 2026 World Maritime Day Parallel Event brought together governments, international organizations, industry and academia to explore practical ways to put global maritime regulations into action.
Discussions focused on supporting countries amid rapid shifts facing the sector, such as digitalization, automation and energy transition, as well as the far-reaching impacts of geopolitical conflicts.
Opening the event, Vice Minister of Oceans and Fisheries of the Republic of Korea, H.E. Mr. Nam Jaeheon, urged greater international solidarity.
“These challenges must be addressed together. If we stand united around the IMO and work together to find solutions, I am confident we can build a brighter future,” he said.
Seafarers first, always
IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez outlined regulatory milestones achieved in 2026, including:
the adoption of the voluntary Code for maritime autonomous surface ships (MASS Code);
the approval of the IMO Strategy on Maritime Digitalization, for consideration by the IMO Assembly; and
progress on safety guidelines for ships using alternative fuels.
During 2026, IMO completed its first global audit cycle, which assessed how 168 Member States (94% of its membership) have implemented its maritime regulations. The findings help to identify common gaps and support more targeted technical assistance.
Secretary-General Dominguez recognised the essential role of people working at sea in implementing IMO regulations: “Always put people first, particularly seafarers. Behind every ship, every shipment and every maritime operation are people. Their safety, well-being and dignity must remain at the heart of everything we do.”
Putting policy into practice at all levels
Panel discussions highlighted actions that could be taken by governments, international organizations, industry and academia.
These included:
Session 1 Government: High-Level Roundtable – The role of governments in implementing IMO instruments and strengthening delivery at national level
Session 2 International Organizations: IGO-NGO Dialogue – International cooperation, technical support and partnerships for effective implementation
Session 3 Industry: Shipping and Shipbuilding Summit – Practical pathways for industry implementation of IMO regulations
Session 4 Academia: Maritime Policy Symposium – Capacity-building, talent development and knowledge partnerships for implementation
During the high-level roundtable, ministers and senior officials from the Republic of Korea, Norway, Cyprus and India shared their national experiences and best practices in enforcement.
They stressed that adopting international regulations is only the first step. Strong national legislation, capable institutions, trained personnel, adequate infrastructure, targeted technical assistance and close cooperation with industry were also crucial.
IMO Council Chair, Mr. Víctor Jiménez Fernández, said: “We have been gathering over the last two days to celebrate the World Maritime Day Parallel Event, but we should not forget the context of the ongoing geopolitical tensions and conflicts we are involved in, as well as the impact of those conflicts on vital shipping lanes, the welfare of seafarers and the international shipping….We all have a role to play to translate into concrete actions the global regulatory framework we develop at IMO: Governments, IGOs, NGOs, industry and academia, and while doing so, let’s be focused on people, seafarers, port workers, ship operators, port State control officers and flag State administrators.”
Philippines to host 2027 event
The event concluded with the ceremonial handover of the World Maritime Day Parallel Event flag to the Philippines, which will host the 2027 edition.
