(NEWS) New WMU Publication - Maritime Governance and Control

May

2016

New WMU Publication - Maritime Governance and Control

On 24 May, WMU launched a new publication “Maritime Governance and Control – Rights and Obligations of States in Maritime Safety, Security and Environmental Protection” written by Jørgen Rasmussen.

“This book serves to provide readers – particularly graduate students – with an excellent overview of the International Maritime Organization system of maritime governance. Maritime governance comprises the entire spectrum of IMO instruments covering a wide range of subjects and providing for a comprehensive governance and regulatory framework for the maritime industry. I wish to express my very special thanks to Mr. Rasmussen for sharing his more than 40 years of experience and expertise in the international maritime environment as a maritime governance expert. The Book will benefit the entire maritime industry, including WMU students,” stated Dr. Cleopatra Doumbia-Henry, President of WMU.

The book is a compilation of materials developed over the many years of Mr. Rasmussen’s teaching at WMU. It brings together in one volume the author’s insight and expertise on Maritime Governance as well as a range of text from official international documents to provide an overview of existing international conventions, rules and regulations on maritime safety, security and protection of the marine environment.

Mr. Rasmussen began his maritime career as a fisherman, seaman and served in the Royal Danish Navy. His distinguished career included many years as Chief Ship Surveyor for the Danish Maritime Authority and he served as Head of the Navigation Section of the Maritime Safety Division at the International Maritime Organization. In 2007, he was the recipient of the International Maritime Prize for his prominent role in developing key instruments of the IMO including the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS), the International Safety Management (ISM) Code and the Voluntary IMO Member State Audit Scheme. He has been a visiting professor at WMU since 1987and in 2014 received the award of WMU Honorary Fellow.

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Dissertation title

Maritime Governance: Contextual Factors affecting Implementation of IMO Instruments

My decision to enroll in the doctoral program at WMU was heavily influenced by my prior experience as a Master's student at the institution. Initially introduced to me as a preeminent global institution for maritime education, WMU's stellar reputation was further substantiated by the exceptional quality of education I received during my Master’s studies. This experience became a compelling factor in my determination to return to WMU as a doctoral student. Recognizing the synergies between my research aspirations and the institutional offerings at WMU, I concluded that continuing my educational journey at this esteemed institution was not only beneficial but also aligned perfectly with my academic and professional goals.

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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Upon graduation, I was awarded a prestigious research fellowship in sustainability, energy, and the pursuit of net-zero emissions within the maritime industry at the esteemed University of Southampton in the United Kingdom. This exciting opportunity marks the next phase of my academic and maritime journey. I remain passionately committed to continuing my exploration of academia and the maritime sector, building upon the invaluable knowledge and experience I acquired during my time at WMU. My primary objective is to contribute significantly to the advancement of the zero-emission maritime industry, a pivotal and transformative sector within our global community.

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