29th session of the IMSO Assembly

The 29th session of the International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) Assembly, hosted at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) building in London, commenced on Monday, 9 December 2024, bringing together IMSO Parties and key stakeholders.

The Assembly opened with inspiring addresses from important leaders in the maritime community and satellite communication industry. The IMSO Director General, Mr. Laurent Parenté highlighted the Organization’s achievements and its role in contributing to safeguarding global maritime communication systems.

This vision was reinforced by Mr. Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary-General of IMO, who praised IMSO’s key oversight contributing to the safety of seafarers and its strong collaboration with IMO. Mr. Ben Palmer, President of Maritime at Viasat+Inmarsat, stressed on how both IMSO and Viasat+Inmarsat have forged a strong and enduring partnership while Mr. Matt Desch, CEO of Iridium Communications Inc., reaffirmed his company’s commitment to further strengthening global maritime safety services.

The Assembly’s agenda reflects its focus on addressing critical issues and opportunities in maritime and satellite communications. Discussions will include reviews of the performance of the recognized mobile satellite services provided by Inmarsat and Iridium, and an update on integrating the BeiDou Message Service System (BDMSS) into the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS). The satellite communication services market and its potential impact on the GMDSS Providers will also be considered along with a presentation by the Director of the ITU Radiocommunication Bureau, Mr. Mario Maniewicz.

The evolution of the Long-Range Identification and Tracking of Ships (LRIT) system will also feature prominently, with deliberations on improving its efficiency, increasing its compliance, exploring its wider application for search and rescue services but also its future development to assist IMO Member States in potential future considerations.

Progress in IMSO’s capacity-building initiatives, including outreach and training programs will also be reviewed. Aiming to update its governance and align with international norms, the Assembly will also address proposed amendments to IMSO’s governing documents and improve its legal and financial frameworks, thereby enhancing transparency and accountability.

This pivotal session underscores IMSO’s commitment to contributing to advancing global maritime safety through satellite communication systems.