The Role and Place of the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code in the International Legal Mechanism for Ensuring Security in Maritime Transport

Abstract

One of the measures taken by the International Maritime Organization to prevent terrorist acts at sea was adoption of amendments to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, aimed at ensuring that ships and their cargo do not become targets of terrorist activities.Complementing the amendments is the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code, which is reviewed in this article. The Code describes a specific mechanism for ensuring security in ports and related facilities, and establishes cooperation between government agencies, the shipping and port industries in identifying security threats and preventing incidents affecting ships in ports or port facilities themselves. The document contains effective elements for preventing and deterring incidents against maritime security. In this capacity, the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code has undoubtedly influenced further development of international law in the field of security, safety and efficiency of international maritime transportation.