International Maritime Organization

The International Maritime Organization (IMO), formerly known as the Intergovernmental Maritime Consultative Organization (IMCO), was established in Geneva in 1948, and came into force ten years later, with its first meeting in 1959. The name IMCO was changed to IMO in 1982. Headquartered in London, United Kingdom, IMO is a specialized agency of the United Nations with 175 member states and three associate members. The primary purpose of the IMO is to develop and maintain a legal framework for transport and to address issues including safety, environmental, legal, technical, cooperation, maritime security, and transport efficiency. The IMO is regulated by an assembly of members and is financially managed by a Board of Members elected from the assembly. The work of the IMO is carried out through committees and is supported annually by technical subcommittees. UN member organizations and the UN family of organizations may monitor IMO proceedings. Observer status is granted to qualified non-governmental organizations. The IMO is supported by a permanent secretariat of staff representing the member states. The secretariat is composed of a Secretary-General who is elected by the conference, and various departments such as those responsible for maritime safety, environmental protection, and conference affairs. References