A global network of 36 animal welfare and protection organisations, led by Stop Live Exports, has formally called on the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to introduce binding international regulations for livestock carriers, warning that the ageing live export fleet poses escalating risks to human life, animal welfare, public health and the marine environment.
Click the image below to view the global International Maritime Organization letter
The fleet of around 110 livestock vessels is, on average, significantly older and much more dangerous than other commercial vessels. This regularly puts animals at risk.
Several media outlets are reporting on our open letter to the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Together with 35 other animal welfare organizations from around the world, we are calling for binding international rules for animal transport ships. This is in response to repeated serious accidents at sea and the alarming situation of an aging and barely regulated fleet.
In the letter, we make it clear that the transport of live animals by sea poses a significant risk to animals, crews, the environment, and public health. Media reports show that political and public pressure is growing—and with it the chance that the IMO will finally take action and create clear, enforceable standards for this largely unregulated sector.
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Lloyd’s List: Animal groups urge IMO to crack down on substandard livestock carrier fleet
Tradewind News: Campaigners call on IMO to tighten rules on livestock carriers
Marine Link: IMO Challenged Over Livestock Carrier Regulations
Times of Israel: Israeli NGO among 36 organizations calling for global reform ov live animal shipping
Safety 4 Sea: Organizations ask IMO for improved framework on livestock carriers
Infomarine: IMO Challenged Over Livestock Carrier Regulations
Robban Assafina: Animal Groups Call for Stricter IMO Livestock Carrier Rules
Baird Maritime: Animal Welfare Groups Urge IMO to Implement Tighter Livestock Carrier Regulations
Cape Argus: Urgent Call for Regulations on Ageing Livestock Shipping Fleet