(NEWS) A Partnership to Develop Lebanon’s Maritime Policy

September

2021

A Partnership to Develop Lebanon’s Maritime Policy

On 22 August, the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) signed a partnership agreement with the World Maritime University (WMU) to support the development of the Integrated Maritime Strategy of Lebanon. This agreement was signed in the framework of the European Union funded project “Strengthening Capability for Integrated Border Management in Lebanon” (EU IBM Lebanon Phase 3).

Extensive efforts are being invested to enhance maritime governance in Lebanon, especially following the explosion in the Port of Beirut on 4 August 2020. The EU IBM Lebanon Phase 3 project is working to support effective, efficient, and coordinated border management in Lebanon and given the expertise of WMU in policy development and capacity building and the University’s wide-ranging experience on maritime conceptualization. Viktor Makai, EU IBM Lebanon Phase 3 project manager, described the partnership as a unique opportunity to benefit from the rich knowledge of the World Maritime University.

From the onset of the work and to ensure synergy amongst all actors, ICMPD and WMU will pursue an inter-agency cooperation and coordination between security agencies as well as all relevant public entities in Lebanon who are involved in the maritime sector.

WMU has been instrumental in supporting ICMPD in the development of Lebanon’s National Integrated Maritime Policy, providing expertise to direct the national maritime policy-building process. WMU engineered and moderated the delivery of two webinars since May: “Maritime Lebanon” and “Safety and Security of Shipping”. The webinar series is run and commissioned by ICMPD and is designed as a platform for transparent discussion by experts on the potential and challenges facing the maritime sector, including a coordinated border security management in Lebanon. The discussions will support the development of a National Integrated Maritime Policy (IMP) in Lebanon.

About WMU

The World Maritime University (WMU) in Malmö, Sweden is established within the framework of the International Maritime Organization, a specialized agency of the United Nations. The mission of WMU is to be the world centre of excellence in postgraduate maritime and oceans education, professional training and research, while building global capacity and promoting sustainable development. WMU’s vision is to inspire leadership and innovation for a sustainable maritime and oceans future. WMU is an organization by and for the international maritime community and is committed to the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.‍

About EU IBM Lebanon Phase 3 Project

“Strengthening Capability for Integrated Border Management in Lebanon” is a European Union funded project, implemented by ICMPD. Its main objective is to enhance capacities of Lebanese authorities to control the borders while facilitating movement of goods and bona fide travellers through a rights-based approach.

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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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