(NEWS) WMU and IFAN Launch Joint Research Project on Maritime Risk and Environmental Protection through Aids to Navigation

January

2026

WMU and IFAN Launch Joint Research Project on Maritime Risk and Environmental Protection through Aids to Navigation

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The World Maritime University (WMU) and the International Foundation for Aids to Navigation (IFAN) have formally launched a new multi-year research partnership focused on strengthening maritime safety and environmental protection through improved risk governance.

The project was announced during an official visit to WMU in Malmö, Sweden on 20 January by IFAN Chief Executive Officer Catherine Mulvihill and IFAN Development Manager Francesca Pradelli. The delegation met with the President of WMU, Professor Maximo Q. Mejia, Jr., together with senior representatives of the University, to discuss the cooperation agreement. Following a working lunch with the WMU officials, the IFAN delegation toured the University.

Regarding the cooperation, Ms Mulvihill said, “Maritime accidents do not only disrupt shipping. They can leave lasting environmental damage and deep social and economic impacts on coastal communities, particularly in regions with limited resources. Through this partnership with the World Maritime University, IFAN is supporting research that looks beyond accident probability and brings these wider consequences into maritime risk governance. The goal is to strengthen how Aids to Navigation, contingency planning, and marine spatial planning are designed and justified, so that prevention measures are better aligned with the places and communities that face the greatest risks.”

President Mejia said, “Our new partnership with IFAN reflects our two institutions’ combined commitment to advancing research that supports safer and more sustainable maritime activity worldwide. By strengthening the evidence base on maritime risk, aids to navigation, and environmental protection, our collaboration will contribute to more informed, data-driven decision-making and more equitable outcomes for coastal States and communities. WMU values this collaboration with IFAN as an important contribution to the application of academic research in navigational safety, maritime policy, and ocean governance.”

The project will pursue several complementary objectives to develop improved methods for assessing maritime risk and strengthen the evidence base for planning and investing in Aids to Navigation. Research activities will focus on case studies in developed and developing countries reflecting a diversity of maritime contexts and risk profiles.

Primary beneficiaries include maritime authorities, port planners, coastal communities exposed to shipping risks, and regional and international organizations working on maritime safety and marine environmental protection.

Over the long term, the partnership seeks to contribute to reduced environmental damage and social disruption from maritime accidents, especially in vulnerable coastal regions. By linking academic research with real-world policy needs, the IFAN–WMU collaboration aims to support more resilient, fair, and informed maritime governance worldwide.

About IFAN

The InternationalFoundation for Aids to Navigation (IFAN) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing maritime safety, protecting marine ecosystems, and strengthening global navigation capabilities. IFAN ensures safer and more efficient shipping routes while minimizing environmental risks by supporting projects focused on enhancing Aids to Navigation (AtoNs) frameworks, developing technical expertise, and providing AtoN infrastructure. Through strategic partnerships, funding, and technical expertise, IFAN plays a pivotal role in securing safe, sustainable global waterways and safeguarding the world’s ocean for future generations.

About WMU

The World Maritime University (WMU) in Malmö, Sweden is established within the framework of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), a specialized agency of the United Nations. The mission of WMU is to be the world centre of excellence in postgraduate maritime and oceans education, professional training and research, while building global capacity and promoting sustainable development. WMU’s vision is to inspire leadership and innovation for a sustainable maritime and oceans future. WMU is an organization by and for the international maritime community and is committed to the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.

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Maritime Governance: Contextual Factors affecting Implementation of IMO Instruments

My decision to enroll in the doctoral program at WMU was heavily influencedby my prior experience as a Master's student at the institution. Initiallyintroduced to me as a preeminent global institution for maritime education,WMU's stellar reputation was further substantiated by the exceptional qualityof education I received during my Master’s studies. This experience became acompelling factor in my determination to return to WMU as a doctoral student.Recognizing the synergies between my research aspirations and the institutionalofferings at WMU, I concluded that continuing my educational journey at thisesteemed institution was not only beneficial but also aligned perfectly with myacademic and professional goals.

My research explored thetheoretical foundations of governance, placing a particular emphasis onmaritime governance. Going beyond mere theoretical frameworks, the studyconducted a comprehensive examination of a crucial aspect within maritimegovernance—specifically, the implementation of International MaritimeOrganization (IMO) instruments, exploring the contextual factors that affectthe implementation process. Applying the grounded theory methodology, theresearch aimed to understand these theoretical underpinnings, as well as firmlyanchor insights in the practical context of maritime governance; unveiling theintricacies and challenges associated with the effective implementation of IMOinstruments in the maritime domain. The selection of this topic was motivatedby a personal interest that was cultivated during my Master’s studies inmaritime law and policy. Furthermore, it was driven by the recognition of ascarcity of scientific research on this specific topic. This gap in theexisting body of knowledge served as a catalyst for my exploration,underscoring the significance of contributing valuable insights to an area ofmaritime governance that has been relatively underrepresented in scholarlyresearch.

Undoubtedly, a highlight of myeducational journey at WMU was the opportunity to forge connections withinfluential change-makers and thought leaders hailing from every corner of theglobe. This invaluable chance to engage with individuals on an internationalscale has not only enabled me to expand my global network but has also servedas a conduit for immersing myself in the rich tapestry of diverse cultures.Through these global interactions, I've gained a profound understanding ofdifferent perspectives, traditions, and approaches, contributing significantlyto my personal and academic growth. This experience goes beyond mere networkingand has also played a pivotal role in fostering stronger connections within theCaribbean region from which I hail.

Embarking on my professional path,my foremost aim is to establish myself as an authority in the field of maritimegovernance. I aspire to leave a significant and enduring mark on the globalmaritime landscape. Beyond the academic sphere, my drive is fuelled by apassionate interest in pursuing diverse opportunities within the maritimedomain and the broader educational sector and contributing significantly topositive transformations in the global maritime sector.

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Maritime Governance: Contextual Factors affecting Implementation of IMO Instruments

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When I made the decision to embark on the journey of pursuing both my MScand PhD degrees, the World Maritime University (WMU) beckoned me for severalcompelling reasons. Foremost among these was WMU's sterling reputation as aworld-class institution within the maritime sphere, a factor that wieldedsignificant influence over my choice. Given my extensive background as a seniorprofessional in the maritime operational field, having held the role of acaptain, I was in search of an academic environment that could serve as a nexusfor both enriching my knowledge and providing a platform for the disseminationof my wealth of industry experience.

WMU's unwavering commitment tomaritime education, coupled with its resolute emphasis on bridging the realmsof academia and industry, deeply resonated with me. It became evident that WMUwas the perfect crucible for my transformation from a career entrenched inmaritime operations to one flourishing within academia. The University'sstoried tradition of nurturing and producing experts and leaders within themaritime sector further solidified its standing as the ideal choice for myeducational pursuits.Furthermore, WMU's distinctive interdisciplinary approachto maritime studies served as an irresistible attraction.

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One of the most memorable aspectsof my WMU experience has undoubtedly been the University's vibrant andinclusive interdisciplinary environment. Engaging with both faculty members andfellow students hailing from diverse backgrounds and nationalities has been anincredibly enriching facet of my academic journey. This inclusive atmospherehas offered me a unique opportunity to gain fresh insights and perspectivesthat would have remained undiscovered within the confines of a purely industry-focusedsetting. The collaborative exchange of ideas across various maritimedisciplines has proven to be invaluable, expanding my horizons and enriching myeducational experience. Additionally, the regular involvement in thoughtfuldiscussions, seminars, and workshops focused on globally relevant maritimetopics has served as a consistent source of inspiration throughout my time atWMU. The University’s unwavering dedication to cultivating a global network ofmaritime experts has allowed me to establish meaningful connections withprofessionals and scholars from across the world. These connections have notonly broadened my academic horizons but have also added a global dimension tomy educational journey, enhancing its depth and significance.

Upon graduation, I was awarded aprestigious research fellowship in sustainability, energy, and the pursuit ofnet-zero emissions within the maritime industry at the esteemed University ofSouthampton in the United Kingdom. This exciting opportunity marks the nextphase of my academic and maritime journey. I remain passionately committed tocontinuing my exploration of academia and the maritime sector, building uponthe invaluable knowledge and experience I acquired during my time at WMU. Myprimary objective is to contribute significantly to the advancement of thezero-emission maritime industry, a pivotal and transformative sector within ourglobal community.

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