INTERNATIONAL MARITIME ORGANIZATION

formerly (194882) Inter-governmental Maritime Consultative Organization (IMCO) United Nations specialized agency created to provide machinery for cooperation in establishing technical regulations and practices in international shipping, to encourage the adoption of the highest possible standards for maritime safety and for navigation, and to discourage discriminatory and restrictive practices in international trade and unfair practices by shipping concerns. The establishment of the organization was provided for in a convention prepared by the United Nations Maritime Conference held in 1948. The convention came into force on March 17, 1958, and the organization held its first assembly in January 1959. Its current name was adopted on May 22, 1982. The Assembly is the policymaking body and meets every two years. The Council, consisting of 24 member states, meets twice a year and is responsible for governing between Assembly sessions. Safety proposals are submitted to the Assembly by the 16-member Maritime Safety Committee, which meets annually. There are a number of subcommittees to deal with specific issues, such as the carriage of dangerous goods, radiocommunications, fire protection, ship design and equipment, lifesaving appliances, and cargoes and containers. A Marine Environment Protection Committee was established in 1973. A secretariat is also maintained, with headquarters in London.