The IMO Council has decided to extend the mandate of Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez for a second four-year term, from 1 January 2028 to 31 December 2031.
The support for his leadership comes amidst the IMO’s continuing struggle to adopt its landmark Net-Zero framework and escalating threats to commercial shipping in the Persian Gulf and Black Sea.
Announcing the decision on 4 November during the Council’s 138th session in London, Council Chair Mr. Victor Jimenez (Spain) congratulated the Secretary-General on behalf of the IMO Council and confirmed that the decision would be submitted to the IMO Assembly for approval when it meets in late 2027.
Addressing the meeting, Mr. Dominguez said: “I am deeply grateful to the Members of the Council and all Members of the Organization for their continued trust and support. I remain committed to following your guidance and contributing to our collective efforts in support of global shipping and seafarers.”
Mr. Dominguez is the tenth Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization. He was first elected by the IMO Council, comprising 40 IMO Member States, at its 129th session in July 2023 for a four-year term beginning on 1 January 2024. His election was approved by the IMO Assembly at its 33rd session in December 2023.
(IMO photo of Arsenio Dominguez)