Web Alert: Togo accedes to two IMO treaties covering unlawful acts at sea and anti-fouling

The IMO has announced that Togo has acceded to two treaties dealing with unlawful acts against the safety of maritime navigation, and the control of harmful anti-fouling systems on ships.

The SUA Convention was adopted to respond to unlawful acts against ships, such as the seizure of ships by force; acts of violence against persons on board ships; and the placing of devices on board a ship which are likely to destroy or damage it. The Convention allows boarding by State Parties and obliges Contracting Governments to either extradite or prosecute alleged offenders. In 2005, a protocol was passed adding further offences to the Convention.

Parties to the AFS Convention are required to prohibit and/or restrict the use of harmful anti-fouling systems on ships flying their flag, as well as ships which operate under their authority and all ships that enter a port, shipyard or offshore terminal of a Party. The Convention prohibits the use of harmful organotins in anti-fouling paints used on ships and establishes a mechanism to prevent the potential future use of other harmful substances in anti-fouling systems.