Denmark – candidate for IMO Council 2026-27

Denmark has submitted its candidature for re-election to the Council of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) 2026-2027.

Denmark is a dedicated maritime nation with a long-standing commitment to IMO and the development of high practicable international standards on safety, efficiency of navigation as well as prevention of marine pollution from ships. Over the years, Denmark has participated in and contributed actively to the work of the IMO, including the ongoing development of the strategic vision for the IMO by which the Council is guiding the work of the IMO organs.

With the complex challenges the world is facing, the expectations to the IMO are increasing. If re-elected, Denmark will continue to actively contribute to maintain the status of the IMO as the center of gravity, not only for global maritime regulation, but also for smart and efficient enforcement, working towards the following priorities:

Denmark’s key priorities are:

  • Enhancing Maritime Safety – Protecting seafarers, passengers, and the marine environment, with a focus on cybersecurity and container loss prevention.
  • Strengthening Maritime Governance – Strengthening governance, transparency, and enforcement to ensure effective and adaptable maritime regulations.
  • Ensuring the Well-Being and Capabilities of Seafarers – Ensuring a skilled, inclusive, and safe working environment for seafarers through better education, training, and well-being initiatives.
  • Ensuring Inclusivity and Collaborative Governance – Promoting inclusivity and collaboration among all IMO Member States to ensure effective and uniform implementation of regulations.
  • Advancing Digitalization and Green Shipping – Driving digitalization and green transition to enhance efficiency, transparency, and sustainability in global shipping.

Learn more about Denmark’s candidacy in our Aide Memoire

Facts

  • The IMO is UN's specialized maritime organization, whose mission is to set global standards for maritime safety and environmental protection of the world seas. IMO has 175 member countries.
  • 40 countries are members of the IMO Council, which can be described as the governing board of the organization. The Council is responsible for the organization's strategy and budget.
  • Elections to the IMO Council are held every second year during the IMO Assembly. Denmark was elected for the first time in 2001 and has been re-elected ever since.

Contact

Maritime Regulation and Legal Affairs