Visit by members of King’s College London Diplomatic Society

On 5 March 2026, members of the King’s College London Diplomatic Society visited the IOPC Funds’ offices in London.

The group of six students was welcomed by IOPC Funds’ Director, Gaute Sivertsen, who provided an overview of the organisation’s role, its governance structure and the legal framework underpinning the international liability and compensation regime for oil pollution damage. He explained the types of claims covered under the 1992 Civil Liability and Fund Conventions and outlined the general criteria applied by the IOPC Funds when assessing their admissibility.

The Director also highlighted some of the challenges facing the organisation and its Member States, noting the impact of current international developments on the movement of oil and the potential implications of international sanctions for the work of the IOPC Funds.

Drawing on his extensive career in international maritime affairs, Mr Sivertsen also shared his experience with the students.

Throughout the session, the students demonstrated keen interest and asked a wide range of questions.

Established in 2011, the King’s College London Diplomatic Society is a leading student organisation focused on foreign policy and international affairs, and one of the largest student-led diplomatic societies in London.

The IOPC Funds remains committed to sharing knowledge and raising awareness of the international liability and compensation regime for ship-source oil pollution. Each year, the organisation supports educational institutions by delivering lectures and presentations to university students, helping to deepen their understanding of the relevant international Conventions.

For further enquiries or information, contact outreach@iopcfunds.org.