Liberia Joins Nairobi Wreck Removal Convention

LIBERIA acceded to the Nairobi International Wreck Convention on the Removal of Wrecks, 2007, on 8 January 2015. It is thus far the largest flag state party to the convention.

The Nairobi Convention covers shipwrecks that could have a potential adverse effect on the safety of lives and property at sea, as well as the marine environment. When it enters into force on 14 April, 2015, it will fill a gap in the existing international legal framework by providing the first set of uniform international rules aimed at ensuring the prompt and effective removal of wrecks.

Liberia has agreed to extend the scope of the convention to its territory, including its territorial sea.

The Liberian Registry is prepared to start issuing wreck removal convention certificates to ensure that its flagged vessels have evidence of compliance prior to the convention’s entry into force. It is also prepared to issue certificates for shipowners with vessels registered in states that are not yet a party to the convention.

David Pascoe, Head of Maritime Operations & Standards for the Liberian International Ship & Corporate Registry (LISCR), the US-based manager of the registry, says, “The Nairobi Convention is designed to create consistency in the treatment of wrecks, and to provide claimants with a guarantee of unequivocal access to shipowners’ financial security for their liability thereto. Liberia’s ratification of the convention continues its long and proud tradition of supporting international legislation designed to maintain and improve the safety and effectiveness of the shipping industry and protection of the marine environment.”