Finland continues as Council member of International Maritime Organization 

On 28 November 2025, the Assembly of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) voted on the members of the Council for 2026-2027. Finland was elected as one of the 40 Member States in the Council.

“I am very happy for the trust placed in Finland in the IMO Council elections. Finland is truly a seafaring country! We will continue our active work and cooperation for the future of shipping,” Minister of Transport and Communications Lulu Ranne says.

Finland has been a member of the IMO Council in 2024–2025. As a member of the new Council, Finland will continue the work to promote efficiency, transparency and inclusiveness in IMO. In the next Council term Finland wants to advocate, in particular, that the voices of maritime educators and the next generation of seafarers are heard.

The IMO plays a key role in developing international rules for maritime transport. The Council, consisting of IMO Member States, provides comprehensive guidance for the Organization’s work between the Assemblies.

The IMO has 176 Member States. Finland has been a Member since 1959.

What’s next?

The meeting of the IMO Assembly will continue in London until 3 December. The new Council will begin its work on 1 January 2026.

Inquiries:

Eero Hokkanen, Ministerial Adviser, Alternate Permanent Representative of Finland to the IMO, tel. +358 50 476 0401, [email protected]