(NEWS) Joint M.Phil. in International Maritime Law and Ocean Policy Launched by WMU and IMLI

June

2016

Joint M.Phil. in International Maritime Law and Ocean Policy Launched by WMU and IMLI

The World Maritime University (WMU) and the IMO International Maritime Law Institute (IMLI), both founded by the United Nations’ International Maritime Organization (IMO), have announced the launch of a joint Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.) programme in International Maritime Law and Ocean Policy. The unique, two-year programme will commence in September 2017.

“We are pleased to offer this innovative M.Phil. programme with our sister organization, IMLI, to ensure the future sustainability of the world’s oceans in accordance with the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The power of our two institutions, both committed to helping implement the 2030 UN Agenda, will provide a unique learning opportunity for maritime and marine professionals who aim to shape the future of the world’s oceans,” stated Dr. Cleopatra Doumbia-Henry, President of WMU.

“It is a pleasure to collaborate with WMU on this innovative M.Phil. programme to which IMLI will contribute the maritime law expertise required for a comprehensive understanding of the complex issues surrounding international maritime law and ocean policy. With IMLI’s unique emphasis on the international regulations adopted by the IMO, and the oceans sustainability, governance, and management expertise gained at WMU, graduates of the programme will undoubtedly become expert maritime lawyers, immersed in the UN system structure and goals, who can advocate for the policies and legislation to transform the world’s oceans and support their sustainable development,” stated Dr. David Attard, Director of IMLI.

The initiative for the M.Phil. programme stems from the increasing threats to the oceans by a number of human activities and the lack of proper governance of the waters within and beyond the limits of national jurisdiction. Issues of regulation and governance as well as fragmented international regimes add another layer of complexity. Ocean governance is ever-changing and it is critical to establish safe and sustainable ocean governance for the 21st century and beyond, as called for in the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goal 14: Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development.

During the first year of the M.Phil. programme, students will attend ocean policy courses offered at WMU with a particular focus on sustainability, governance and management. The second year of studies will be completed at IMLI with courses focusing on international maritime law, including law of the sea, shipping law, marine environmental law, and maritime security law. Completion of the programme will require a successful dissertation on a suitable topic, reflecting the needs of students’ home countries.

“We expect graduates of the programme to play an important role in developing national ocean governance policies that reflect the latest international initiatives, rules and regulations” said Dr. Doumbia-Henry.

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