The international maritime community marks World Maritime Day on 24 September as shipping faces the direct impacts of wider geopolitical tensions and conflict.    Merchant ships have been attacked in multiple conflict zones – from the Strait of Hormuz to the Black Sea and Sea of Azov – resulting in the deaths of dozens of innocent seafarers, and the disruption of global trade and critical supply chains.    Against this backdrop, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) is highlighting the importance of upholding and implementing the international regulatory framework that keeps shipping safe, secure and efficient, while protecting the people who work at sea.    In his official message to mark the day, IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez said:    “This year’s World Maritime Day theme, ‘From Policy to Practice: Powering Maritime Excellence’, recognizes the reality that regulations will deliver safer, more resilient, and cleaner shipping when they are implemented worldwide.      “Implementation must make a difference where it matters most – for the people working at sea. Seafarers come first. Always.”      The World Maritime Day theme spans 2026 and 2027, allowing Member States and partners to focus on turning global policy decisions into practical outcomes.     This includes translating IMO regulations into national legislation, strengthening enforcement, and enhancing training.      

A central part of IMO’s work is supporting Member States in implementing IMO regulations effectively.    This year, IMO completed the first audit cycle under the IMO Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS). Since the scheme became mandatory in 2026, 168 Member States (94% of the membership) have been audited on how effectively they meet their obligations under key IMO instruments.      The findings revealed that many countries still struggle to translate IMO rules into national law, with shortage of technical expertise and infrastructure, and weak oversight of ships being key challenges.      Based on this information, IMO will target technical assistance where it is needed most – including in Least Developed Countries and Small Island Developing States.     Effective implementation of international regulations ultimately hinges on capacity at national and local levels. IMO supports countries through:    Technical assistance to draft or update national legislation, establish administrative frameworks, and strengthen enforcement.   Training programmes for administrations, ports and seafarers, supported by regional centres and partnerships. And,   Peer learning and knowledge exchange, through IMO projects, programmes and global networks.     The World Maritime Day theme focuses on practical implementation across key areas of IMO’s work, including:   Safety and new technologies   Preparing shipping for decarbonization    Tackling fraudulent ship registration and maritime fraud    Facilitation, digitalization and resilience   Cyber security and maritime security and    Marine environment protection beyond carbon     On 24 September, the IMO Headquarters in London will be illuminated in blue, symbolizing the global commitment to turning policy into practice.     Secretary-General Dominguez has invited all Member States, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations to also join the initiative by lighting up prominent buildings in blue.    Everyone is encouraged to share photos or stories on social media, showing how maritime policy is being put into practice, using the hashtags #WorldMaritimeDay and #MaritimePolicytoPractice.     “With at least 80 per cent of international trade moving by sea, maritime shipping keeps our world afloat. For nearly eight decades, countries have worked together to develop conventions and codes that make global seafaring more efficient, fair, sustainable and safe.    
But this critical framework is under strain. Conflicts and geopolitical tensions are infringing on navigational rights and freedoms that must be restored. The lives of seafarers are being threatened, and the global supply of fuel, fertilizers and food has been disrupted. These shocks to the global economy have devastating consequences, especially for developing countries.     That is why the theme of World Maritime Day for 2026 and 2027 is “From Policy to Practice: Powering Maritime Excellence”. It speaks to the vital importance of adhering to international law and ensuring it is fully implemented.    Seafarers, port workers, ship operators and inspectors all have a role to play in turning global maritime commitments into reality. From worker safety to the energy transition, these laws and policies protect crews and help preserve our oceans.    With collective action by governments, labour groups and the private sector, we can go even further. Together, let us ensure maritime excellence – and safer, more resilient seas for all.”