Iran Submits Proposal to Harmonize Maritime Oversight Audits at IMO’s HTW 13 Session
The Islamic Republic of Iran has drafted and submitted a formal proposal titled "Proposed Integrated Oversight Processes" to the 13th session of the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Sub-Committee on Human Element.
Omran Moradpour Tayebi, Director General of Seafarers' Affairs, Specialized and International Organizations, stated that the document was prepared to explore aligning the independent audit process under the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) with the IMO Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS). The proposal has been formally submitted for review at the upcoming HTW 13 session.
Highlighting the significance of coordinating international compliance oversight, Moradpour Tayebi explained that the initiative examines ways to harmonize STCW independent audits with the IMSAS framework. The goal, he noted, is to reduce overlap, eliminate duplication of efforts, and enhance the overall effectiveness of oversight mechanisms while preserving the specific requirements and distinct characteristics of both audit systems.
A key feature of the submission is its inclusion of technical and procedural recommendations supported by operational flowcharts, which outline the multifaceted aspects of the issue and provide a practical framework for evaluating coordination between the two systems.
"Efforts were made to ensure that the Islamic Republic of Iran's proposal does not remain merely at the conceptual level, with specific attention given to its operational and procedural dimensions," Moradpour Tayebi said.
Stressing the importance of an active and influential presence in specialized international forums, he added that participation in IMO activities should not be limited to attending meetings and commenting on existing documents. Instead, he emphasized that Iran should leverage its scientific expertise, technical capacities, and operational experience to introduce innovative solutions and play an active role in shaping international standards and mechanisms.
Moradpour Tayebi described the submission to HTW 13 as a reflection of domestic experts' commitment to contributing actively to the STCW Convention review process and strengthening international compliance oversight. He noted that such initiatives help reinforce Iran's technical standing and international credibility in seafarer training, competency, and certification.
Discussions on the proposal at HTW 13 are expected to provide a platform for IMO member states to share expert perspectives and assess existing capacities for enhancing coordination across the organization’s audit and oversight frameworks.
