Global shipping influencers have applauded the changes brought about by IMO’s Facilitation Convention, which continues to shape the future of maritime transport six decades after it was adopted.
To mark 60 years of the Convention on the Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic (FAL Convention), international delegates gathered for a special panel event hosted by IMO on 10 March to explore the impact of the treaty and its relevance for the future.
Lars Kjaer, Senior Vice-President of the World Shipping Council said that despite driving a digital leap forward for the sector, many stakeholders were not aware of the convention, nor its role in facilitating maritime trade. He urged more actions to raise awareness about the FAL Convention, as well as engaging different regions about their concerns and challenges in implementation.
In addition, Patrick Verhoeven, Managing Director of the International Association of Ports and Harbours (IAPH) underlined the good progress achieved on standardization and digitalization while highlighting current challenges. That includes closing the digital gap between countries with advanced technologies and those without, as well as protecting against cyber security risks.
Of course, we want to promote digitalization, but the number one risk for the port industry is the cyber risk, because we provide a critical service with critical infrastructure. With the growing geopolitical instability, that risk only increases.
…Verhoeven stated.
Building trust between government and industry, including through public-private partnerships, was therefore crucial to ensure the safe and efficient to exchange of data and information.
Deck Officer Scarlett Barnett-Smith, a young seafarer working for DFDS Seaways, focused on the impacts of the convention on the lives of seafarers.
I think it is very important that seafarers focus on our core duties – not sitting behind a computer processing loads of paperwork.
…highlighted Barnett-Smith.
She also mentioned a potential “fear of modernization” among some of the workforce and called on ship and port managers to provide clear, accessible communication to ensure seafarers are not left behind in the digital transition.
Moreover, she stressed the importance of protecting seafarers’ mental health and providing a supportive environment for females on board ships, who make up less than 2% of seafarers worldwide.
Discussions between the panelists and the audience were dynamic and wide-ranging, demonstrating the broad interest in the FAL Convention and idea of having a “shared responsibility.” The event was held in the margins of the 49th session of the Facilitation Committee.
