Relations with Observer Organizations

Intergovernmental and non-governmental international organizations

In addition to Member States, intergovernmental and non-governmental international organizations play an active role in the work of IMO: they contribute to the discussions in the various IMO organs by providing expert advice to IMO Member States on their respective areas of work.

How do they enter into a formal relation with IMO?

The Organization may, on matters within its scope, cooperate with other intergovernmental organizations whose interests and activities are related to the purposes of the Organization. To this end, it may enter into agreements of cooperation with them on matters of common interest with a view to ensuring cooperation in respect of such matters.

With regard to non-governmental international organizations, those that have the capability to make a substantial contribution to the work of IMO and meet the provisions contained in the Rules and Guidelines for Consultative Status of Non-Governmental International Organizations with the International Maritime Organization may be granted consultative status by the Council with the approval of the Assembly.