IMO: Maritime refuge guidelines

The International Maritime Organization has published Assembly Resolution A.1184(33) on the guidelines on places of refuge for ships in need of assistance.

This resolution was adopted on 6 December 2023.

The resolution emphasizes the need to balance the prerogative of a ship in need of assistance to seek a place of refuge and the prerogative of a coastal state to protect its coastline. It also recognizes that coastal states are not obligated to grant places of refuge under international law, but provides guidelines for coastal states to determine and respond effectively to requests for places of refuge.

The document outlines the actions required of masters, salvors, and other parties involved with ships in need of assistance seeking a place of refuge. It highlights the importance of communication and cooperation between the ship's master, salvor, flag state, classification society, emergency response service, insurers, port authorities, and the company/operator. It also includes a formal place of refuge request form (Form A) that should be used when requesting a place of refuge.

The document further explains the actions expected of coastal states. It recommends that coastal states designate a competent authority (CA) with the expertise and authority to make independent decisions regarding the accommodation of ships in need of assistance seeking a place of refuge. It also suggests that coastal states establish plans and procedures for accommodating ships in need of assistance and assess potential places of refuge. The document provides a list of risk analysis factors that should be considered during the assessment process.

Additionally, the document addresses the importance of international and regional cooperation and coordination for places of refuge. It recommends that coastal states cooperate and consult with each other when dealing with situations involving ships in need of assistance seeking a place of refuge. It also suggests the establishment of regional cooperation agreements and the sharing of information and resources.

The document includes sections on media and information management, emphasizing the importance of delivering accurate and timely information to the public and other stakeholders. It also highlights the need for debrief sessions and exercises to learn from past incidents and improve response capabilities.