International Maritime Organization mulls curbs on industry influence, citing climate concerns

UN shipping body mulls curbs on industry influence, citing climate concerns
Megan Darby 03/07/2018

The International Maritime Organization’s governing council has agreed to consider reforms, while documents show giving gifts for votes is standard practice

The UN shipping body will consider measures to curb industry dominance, seen as a threat to its climate goals.

The International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) governing council agreed on Tuesday to set up a working group, in response to concerns raised by campaigners and backed by 12 countries.

A diverse coalition submitted a proposal ahead of the meeting, including major flag registries Liberia and Bahamas; oil and gas exporters Iran and the UAE; and developed countries Australia, Canada and Spain.

They cited research by Influence Map and Transparency International, which warned undue industry influence over shipping talks jeopardised climate action in the sector.

In light of those concerns, the submission said “the council should, as a high priority, examine the role of industry bodies and other organizations in consultative status with IMO”.

Liberian envoy Isaac Jackson told Climate Home News: “definitely we want a reduction of greenhouse gases, but we need to have a compromise”. He said his priorities for reform were to secure a permanent seat on the IMO council and stronger African representation.

The working group is to meet in November and consider industry participation as part of a wider overhaul of the organisation’s governance. It will be open to all member states, not just the 40 represented on the council.

more... http://www.climatechangenews.com/2018/07/03/un-shipping-body-mulls-curbs...