WEBINAR - Inside the MEPC: Negotiation, Consensus and the Road Ahead
The Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) plays a central role in shaping the global regulatory framework for the environmental sustainability and decarbonization of international shipping. Behind its formal decisions lies a complex process of discussion, negotiation and consensus building among IMO Member States with different national circumstances, priorities and interests.Drawing on the unique experience of the Chair of the MEPC, this webinar will offer an inside perspective on how the Committee works in practice. The session will explore the role of the Chair in facilitating discussions, managing different positions and guiding Member States towards consensus and agreement. It will also consider the important contribution of informal dialogue and exchanges outside the formal meeting room, including bilateral discussions and conversations during meeting breaks, in identifying common ground and supporting progress in negotiations.
MODERATORS
Professor Dr. Aykut I. Ölçer, Director of Research, Maritime Energy Management, World Maritime University, Malmö, Sweden
Associate Professor Fabio Ballini, Maritime Energy Management, World Maritime University, Malmö, Sweden
PRESENTER
Dr. Harry T. Conway, Alternate Permanent Representative, Liberia Permanent Mission to IMO, & Chair, Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC), International Maritime Organization (IMO), London, United Kingdom
AGENDA
Welcome and Introduction (13:30 - 13:40 CEST)
Professor Dr. Aykut I. Ölçer
PRESENTATION (13:40-14:00 CEST)
Dr. Harry T. Conway
Drawing on his experience as MEPC Chair, Dr. Conway will provide insights into the discussion, negotiation and agreement-building process among IMO Member States, including how different national positions are managed and how the Chair facilitates dialogue and supports the search for consensus. The presentation will also explore the interaction between formal negotiations and informal discussions, including bilateral exchanges and conversations outside the formal meeting room, and how these can help build trust, identify areas of convergence and facilitate agreement.
Q&A Session (14:00-14:25 CEST)
Closing Remarks (14:25-14:30 CEST)