In the increasingly complex world of global economics, international shipping is expanding beyond the old frontiers of trade and commerce. This situation requires more experts in international maritime law who can develop, maintain, and interpret the comprehensive framework of laws related to the seven seas.

Specialists in maritime law must understand all the international conventions, codes, and other legal instruments that: 1) promote maritime safety and security, 2) prevent pollution of the marine environment by shipping activities and, 3) facilitate the smooth functioning of international maritime traffic.

The International Maritime Law Institute (IMLI) was established in 1988 by the United Nations' International Maritime Organization (IMO), to provide up to date and continuing education of lawyers with international expertise in the law of the seas.

It was decided to locate IMLI in Malta, an island country that stands at the center of strategic shipping lanes between Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. "IMLI is a gem of an institute. It has served excellently the rule of International Maritime Law and has furthered Malta' position in the maritime world," commented Dr Joe Borg, EU Commissioner for Fisheries and Maritime Affairs.

IMLI provides a unique opportunity to study the international implications of maritime law in a multicultural environment under the guidance of internationally known professors and lecturers: all experts in the laws of the sea. Most of the "students" at IMLI are already lawyers, legal advisors, judges, and legal draftsmen and women whose duties in their home countries encompass maritime issues. They come to IMLI for further specialization.

The courses at IMLI are open to law graduates of any country who intend to pursue a legal career in the field of maritime law, regardless of whether they intend to work in the public or private sector, in practice, administration, or academia. Originally intended for candidates from developing countries, IMLI has grown into a comprehensive and versatile institution that offers a curriculum that accommodates the needs of students from all around the world. The central focus of IMLI is embodied in its motto: "Serving the Rule of International Maritime Law."

The Nippon Foundation supports deserving government-nominated IMLI scholars. During the 2007-08 academic year, the Foundation is providing funding for ten scholarships. This support is given through its joint project with IMLI known as the "Human Resources Development Project for the Advancement of a More Effective Legal Order for the Oceans." To date IMLI has trained over 300 men and women in international maritime law.

"IMLI's impact can be measured by the undeniable success of its graduates around the world, as they have consistently secured senior positions in government administrations worldwide and within the global maritime industry - positions ranging from ministers of justice, attorneys general, chief justices, ambassadors, chief executives, and senior corporate managers," said Mr Efthimios Mitropoulos, Secretary-General of IMO and Chairman of the IMLI Governing Board.

Link: The International Maritime Law Institute