IMO-International Maritime Law Institute

During its 137th Session, Professor Dr. Norman A. Martínez Gutiérrez (Director, IMLI) informed the IMO Council that, in line with the IMO Assembly and Council’s commitment to multilingualism, IMLI’s Governing Board has approved a new initiative allowing students to prepare their maritime legislation drafting projects in English, French, or Spanish. He explained that the measure will enhance legal accuracy by enabling students to draft in national or official languages, while strengthening inclusivity in legal education and supporting the IMO’s phased multilingualism roadmap. The Director noted that the initiative will contribute to more effective implementation of maritime treaty obligations and will reaffirm IMLI’s role in advancing the IMO’s global legal training efforts.

Professor Dr. Norman A. Martínez Gutiérrez (Director, IMLI) is making an intervention outlining IMLI’s activities and developments for the year 2025 to the 137th Session of the IMO Council being held at IMO Headquarters in London.

Professor Dr. Norman A. Martínez Gutiérrez (Director, IMLI) held a successful consultative meeting with Delegates from key Nigerian maritime institutions. Attending this meeting were Mr. Yusuf Girei (Board Chairman / Acting Managing Director/CEO, National Inland Waterways Authority), Barrister Akutah Pius Ukeyima (Executive Secretary, Nigeria Shippers Council), Dr. Kevin Okonna (Rector, Maritime Academy of Nigeria [MAN]), and members of Nigeria’s Permanent Mission to IMO. During this meeting possible future cooperation between IMLI and the Nigerian authorities was discussed.

IMLI is proud to record that many IMLI Graduates are attending the 137th Session of the IMO Council as part of their countries’ delegations as well as members of the IMO Staff. A number of these Graduates joined Mr. Arsenio Domínguez (IMO Secretary-General; Chairman, IMLI Governing Board) and Professor Dr. Norman A. Martínez Gutiérrez (Director, IMLI) for a commemorative photo.

IMLI e-News No. 20/2025-2026

IMLI’s 37th GRADUATION CEREMONY
https://tinyurl.com/2zuyc5hb

A delegation from Côte d’Ivoire paid a courtesy visit to the Institute. Headed by Mr. Benjamin Dauangui B. Soro (Chief of Delegation, Ministry of Maritime Affairs), the delegation was warmly welcomed by Ms. Elda Kazara-Belja (Chief of Administration, IMLI), IMLI Faculty and Staff. Ms. Kazara-Belja delivered a presentation introducing IMLI, its mission and its programmes to the members of the delegation. This was followed by a discussion meeting between the Côte d’Ivoire Delegation, Ms. Elda Kazara-Belja and the members of the IMLI Faculty on possible future cooperation between IMLI and Côte d’Ivoire’s authorities.
’Ivoire

On the International Day of the Seafarer, IMLI joins the international maritime community in recognizing the invaluable contribution of seafarers to international trade, global connectivity and the sustainable development of the maritime sector.

As the backbone of the global shipping industry, seafarers ensure the uninterrupted movement of goods and resources across the world's oceans, often working under demanding conditions with dedication, professionalism and resilience. IMLI reaffirms its commitment to advancing the rule of international maritime law and help strengthening the legal frameworks that promote the safety, security, welfare and rights of seafarers.

Through education, research and international cooperation, IMLI continues to prepare and inspire the maritime leaders of tomorrow to uphold and support the vital role of seafarers, contributing to a safer and sustainable future for the global maritime community.

-Carryingtherisks

Prizes for the best performances during the Academic Year 2025-2026 being awarded to deserving Graduates at the IMLI 37th Graduation Ceremony.