IOPC Funds supports IMLI’s Course on the Law of Ports

On 16 January 2025, IOPC Funds’ HNS Project Manager, Ms Gillian Grant, delivered an online lecture to participants in the International Maritime Law Institute’s (IMLI) Course on the Law of Ports. The course covers key aspects of port operations and areas governed by the International Maritime Organization’s legal instruments.

Ms Grant’s presentation, entitled “The 2010 HNS Convention: why does it matter?”, provided an overview of the Convention, its current status, the HNS Fund, and the IOPC Funds’ role in the lead-up to its expected entry into force. She highlighted the importance of the Convention and the benefits it offers to Member States, particularly in light of recent HNS incidents and the anticipated increase in the global transportation of HNS cargoes as the shipping industry advances towards decarbonisation.

Participants were also updated on preparations for the entry into force of the 2010 HNS Convention and its implications for stakeholders and the IOPC Funds. Ms Grant explained how the HNS Fund will be financed, stressed the importance of accurate reporting of HNS cargoes, and underlined the critical role of the HNS Finder, the online database listing substances within the scope of the Convention, including contributing cargoes.

Today’s session concluded with an engaging discussion, with participants posing a wide range of questions.

IMLI, established by IMO to provide advanced education in international maritime law, is based in Malta. The Institute is offering the Course on ports as part of its mission to enhance capacity-building, particularly within government entities of IMO Member States dealing with port-related matters.