Best Management Practices (BMP) for Maritime Security (MS). The new interactive online publication aims to provide comprehensive, actionable insights into maritime security and threat management for seafarers worldwide.
The publication consolidates various regional BMP documents into a single resource, focusing on a dynamic threat and risk management process. It is designed to offer users the most up-to-date security intelligence and risk assessment information. Recognizing the constantly evolving security landscape, BMP Maritime Security guides users to the latest information and ensures seafarers are equipped with relevant knowledge to face maritime security challenges. The publication is now accessible online at https://www.maritimeglobalsecurity.org/.
Seafarers operating globally face a range of security threats, often involving aggressive state and non-state actors. These risks vary across regions but can have severe consequences, including physical and mental harm, hostage situations, and violence. With incidents of piracy and armed robbery still a major concern, it is critical for the industry to continuously adapt its security strategies.
While previous BMP guidelines have helped the industry better detect, understand, and deter maritime security threats, the updated publication is designed to keep pace with an increasingly complex threat environment. It includes easy navigation, external resource links, diagrams, and crucial sections detailing global authorities, contacts, and tools focused on seafarer welfare support.
Strong Industry Support for BMP Maritime Security
David Loosley, Secretary General & CEO of BIMCO, highlighted the rising threats faced by seafarers in 2024, citing the unprecedented spike in attacks, particularly in the Black Sea and Southern Red Sea, which saw more than one hundred incidents. He emphasized that BMP MS is a critical tool in mitigating risks and protecting seafarers, saving lives, and ensuring world trade continues to flow safely.
Guy Platten, Secretary General of ICS, expressed the urgency of addressing the increasing threats to seafarers, drawing attention to the conflict in Ukraine and the Red Sea Crisis, which have intensified dangers faced by the shipping industry. He stressed that BMP MS is an important continuation of the industry’s commitment to safeguarding seafarers.
Iain Grainger, Chief Executive of IMCA, noted the importance of staying ahead of the rapidly evolving security threats. The new BMP Maritime Security publication offers practical guidance that helps vessels proactively manage risks and safeguard crew welfare.
Kostas G. Gkonis, PhD, Director / Secretary General of INTERCARGO, reinforced the need for industry collaboration in the face of escalating global threats. He emphasized the publication’s focus on delivering clear, actionable protocols to ensure the safety of seafarers working at sea.
Tim Wilkins, Managing Director of INTERTANKO, stressed that providing the most up-to-date information to seafarers is crucial in the face of armed threats. He affirmed that BMP MS serves as an essential reference for every vessel in navigating security challenges.
Finally, Karen Davis, Managing Director of OCIMF, underscored the importance of clear and accessible security advice. She affirmed that the BMP Maritime Security publication consolidates the best available information to assist the maritime community in managing threats effectively.
With these collaborations and insights, BMP Maritime Security aims to become the essential resource for maritime security, ensuring the protection of seafarers and the continued resilience of global trade.
