The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) has completed the first cycle of audits under the IMO Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS), in which 168 Member States have been assessed on the effectiveness of their implementation of IMO regulations since the Scheme became mandatory in 2016.
The IMSAS helps Member States to strengthen the way in which they implement and enforce IMO regulations, thereby contributing to safer and more environmentally sustainable shipping.
With 94 per cent of IMO Member States audited, the first cycle represents one of the most comprehensive collective assessments of global maritime governance ever undertaken.
Audits drive stronger technical assistance
The first cycle of audits has generated a valuable set of data on how IMO instruments are being implemented worldwide.
The audit findings, corrective action plans (CAPs) and the analysis of the consolidated audit reports (CASRs) have highlighted recurring areas requiring attention and their underlying causes.
This information enables the IMO to target technical assistance where it is most needed, helping Member States to address deficiencies, implement corrective measures and improve the implementation of and compliance with the relevant IMO instruments.
It also supports the implementation of the IMO Capacity Development Strategy (Resolution A.1205(34)), which recognises the results of the IMSAS as a key factor in shaping needs-based capacity development programmes and projects, within the framework of the Organisation’s thematic technical cooperation.
The second cycle begins in 2027
The second audit cycle will begin in July 2027 in accordance with the revised IMSAS Framework and Procedures (Resolution A.1211(34)).
The revised system introduces the IMSAS Continuous Monitoring Mechanism (ICMM), which is characterised by a more risk-based, data-driven and transparent approach. This facilitates continuous monitoring, the prioritisation of audits and greater integration of audit findings into the IMO’s capacity-building and technical cooperation activities.
Strong commitment from Member States
The completion of the first audit cycle highlights the strong and sustained commitment of Member States to ensuring the effective and consistent implementation of the relevant IMO instruments worldwide.
The active participation of Member States and the work of the hundreds of government-appointed auditors have been fundamental to the Programme’s success.
Member States are encouraged to continue appointing suitably qualified auditors, in particular women and young professionals, in accordance with Circular No. 5105.
News and imagen obtained: "Organización Internacional Marítima"
https://www.imo.org/es/mediacentre/pages/whatsnew-2476.aspx
