The Jamaica has launched its campaign for re-election to Category C of the International Maritime Organization Council for the 2028-2029 biennium, setting out a case built on inclusive representation, practical maritime capability and a strong voice for developing countries.

The campaign was launched at a reception in London attended by IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez, ambassadors, permanent representatives, heads of delegation and members of the diplomatic community. It comes as Jamaica marks 50 years of IMO membership and looks ahead to elections next year.

Speaking at the event, Corah Ann Robertson-Sylvester, Chair of the Maritime Authority of Jamaica, reflected on the country’s long involvement in the IMO and its understanding of the challenges facing economies that rely heavily on maritime transport.

“Jamaica remains a trusted member state and a credible international maritime partner,” she said. “It is critical that the interests and concerns of SIDS, LDCs and other developing countries continue to be reflected in the work of the IMO.”

At the heart of Jamaica’s campaign is its role in helping to turn international maritime regulation into practical action across the Caribbean. As a flag, port and coastal State, Jamaica has ratified all major IMO conventions covering safety, security and protection of the marine environment. It is also home to the Caribbean Maritime University, the only IMO-accredited university in the English-speaking Caribbean.

That regional role is backed by a growing maritime cluster, including container transhipment facilities, cruise terminals, a floating drydock and an expanding bunkering sector. Jamaica was the first Caribbean country to facilitate LNG bunkering and has commissioned an assessment of alternative marine fuels through the IMO GreenVoyage2050 programme.

Jamaica has pledged to continue supporting the fair and consistent implementation of IMO instruments, inclusive decision-making, technical cooperation, maritime safety and environmental sustainability. Its campaign also highlights the country’s commitment to women in maritime, from training female seafarers to hosting the secretariats of the Women in Maritime Association, Caribbean, and the Caribbean Memorandum of Understanding on Port State Control.

Looking ahead to next year’s election, Mrs Robertson-Sylvester said: “Our message is simple: we are ready to continue serving, ready to contribute and ready to work with you. We therefore respectfully ask for your support for re-election.”