At its 20th session in November 1997, the IMO Assembly adopted Resolution A.850(20) Human element vision, principles and goals for the Organization. The resolution acknowledged the need for increased focus on human-related activities in the safe operation of ships, and the need to achieve and maintain high standards of safety and environmental protection for the purpose of significantly reducing maritime casualties. The resolution was updated by Assembly Resolution A.947(23) in 2003.
The Human Element pages of IMO's web site provide detailed information and links to related IMO resources, publications and documents.
The International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), 1978, as amended, sets the standards of competence for seafarers internationally. The International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Fishing Vessel Personnel, 1995 (STCW-F 1995) sets the certification and minimum training requirements for crews of seagoing fishing vessels of 24 metres in length and above.
The Training and Certification pages of IMO's web site provide detailed information and links to related IMO resources, publications and documents.
The International Maritime Organization does not approve any training courses or institutes. This is a privilege and responsibility of Member Governments who are Parties to the STCW Convention.
Amongst its provisions is a requirement for Parties to the STCW to communicate information to IMO on the measures adopted to implement the Convention nationally. That information is subject to scrutiny to ensure that the Convention is being given 'full and complete effect' and, if this is so, the Party features on the "List of confirmed STCW Parties" and "Information related to Reports of Independent Evaluation".
The Training and Certification pages of IMO's web site provide detailed information and links to related IMO resources, publications and documents.
DotS was established in Resolution19 (STCW/CONF.2/DC/4) adopted by the 2010 Diplomatic Conference in Manila to adopt the revised STCW Convention. Its stated purpose is to recognize the unique contribution made by seafarers from all over the world to international seaborne trade, the world economy and civil society as a whole. The resolution "encourages Governments, shipping organizations, companies, shipowners and all other parties concerned to duly and appropriately promote the Day of the Seafarer and take action to celebrate it meaningfully".
Day of the Seafarer, June 25, is now celebrated annually by the IMO, is a recognized International Day observed by the United Nations, and is supported through global engagement on social media driven by each year's distinct World Maritime Day theme.