(NEWS) Director Kopczynska Addresses WMU Students and Faculty on Maritime Europe

July

2018

Director Kopczynska Addresses WMU Students and Faculty on Maritime Europe

On 11 July, President Doumbia-Henry welcomed to WMU Ms Magda Kopczynska, Director for Waterborne Transport, Directorate-General for Mobility and Transport within the European Commission. The Directorate-General for Mobility and Transport is responsible for the development and follow-up of the implementation of policies in support of logistics, maritime transport, ports, and inland navigation.

Ms. Kopczynska addressed and engaged with Students and Faculty in the framework of the Maritime Energy Management (MEM) seminar week. The lecture, entitled “Maritime Europe”, focused on EU policy making (Transport), EU maritime transport policy and priorities, EU policy instruments, EU priorities on maritime sustainability, including greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution and alternative fuels, port reception facilities, as well as the EU’s relationship with the International Maritime Organization (IMO). A lively discussion and a stimulating question and answer session followed the lecture.

The Maritime Energy Management seminar week brings together visiting professors and experts to examine, discuss and engage on matters relating to the latest developments in the field of maritime energy management with the aim of achieving an energy efficient and low carbon future for the maritime industry. The event directly supports WMU’s commitment to the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, in particular Goal 7: Ensure access to affordable, reliable sustainable and modern energy for all.

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My research explored the theoretical foundations of governance, placing a particular emphasis on maritime governance. Going beyond mere theoretical frameworks, the study conducted a comprehensive examination of a crucial aspect within maritime governance—specifically, the implementation of International Maritime Organization (IMO) instruments, exploring the contextual factors that affect the implementation process. Applying the grounded theory methodology, the research aimed to understand these theoretical underpinnings, as well as firmly anchor insights in the practical context of maritime governance; unveiling the intricacies and challenges associated with the effective implementation of IMO instruments in the maritime domain. The selection of this topic was motivated by a personal interest that was cultivated during my Master’s studies in maritime law and policy. Furthermore, it was driven by the recognition of a scarcity of scientific research on this specific topic. This gap in the existing body of knowledge served as a catalyst for my exploration, underscoring the significance of contributing valuable insights to an area of maritime governance that has been relatively underrepresented in scholarly research.

Undoubtedly, a highlight of my educational journey at WMU was the opportunity to forge connections with influential change-makers and thought leaders hailing from every corner of the globe. This invaluable chance to engage with individuals on an international scale has not only enabled me to expand my global network but has also served as a conduit for immersing myself in the rich tapestry of diverse cultures. Through these global interactions, I've gained a profound understanding of different perspectives, traditions, and approaches, contributing significantly to my personal and academic growth. This experience goes beyond mere networking and has also played a pivotal role in fostering stronger connections within the Caribbean region from which I hail.

Embarking on my professional path, my foremost aim is to establish myself as an authority in the field of maritime governance. I aspire to leave a significant and enduring mark on the global maritime landscape. Beyond the academic sphere, my drive is fuelled by a passionate interest in pursuing diverse opportunities within the maritime domain and the broader educational sector and contributing significantly to positive transformations in the global maritime sector.

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