A Legal Analysis of the Manila Amendments to the STCW Convention

The competence, knowledge, qualification and professional skills of seafarers are the most critical factors in the safe and efficient operation of ships, on the safety of life at sea and the protection of the environment.The aim of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) is to "promote the safety of life at sea and the protection of the marine environment, among others, by establishing in common agreement international Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for seafarers". It adopted the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, The STCW Convention 78, was amended and comprehensively revised in 1995 and 2010.The Manila Amendments aimed, on the one hand, to improve the existing provisions of the STCW and, on the other hand, to update the Convention with the latest technological developments. The revisions pertaining to maritime safety, security and protection of the marine environment, established new maritime training for deck and engine department, created requirements for new capacities, including adherence to the requirements for refresher and revalidation training.

Autorentext

Davit Jincharadze Master of law in International Maritime Law, studied at IMO International Maritime Law Institute (IMLI). Head of Ship Registry and Flag Control Department at Maritime Transport Agency of Georgia.