Maritime authorities from across the Caribbean are gathered in Kingston, Jamaica (18–22 August), to strengthen coordination and response in maritime search and rescue (SAR) operations, in a region which faces unique challenges in SAR operations due to its geographical spread, reliance on maritime activities, and exposure to natural disasters and shipping incidents.

The Sub-Regional Workshop on Search and Rescue (SAR) Mission Coordination  is organized by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in collaboration with the Maritime Authority of Jamaica (MAJ).

Strengthening SAR capacity is essential for safeguarding lives, protecting the marine environment and ensuring compliance with international standards.

Through interactive technical sessions, participants are enhancing their knowledge and skills in:

• SAR procedures and techniques – emergency response planning, coordination, and operational management.

• SAR execution and evaluation – conducting, concluding, and assessing SAR operations.

• Regional collaboration – promoting information exchange and cooperative action across Member States.

Opening the workshop, Mr. Bertrand Smith, Director General of the Maritime Authority of Jamaica, said the workshop “is designed to help our countries more effectively meet our obligations under the SAR Convention. Its main objective is to strengthen Search and Rescue mission coordination by equipping senior personnel from Maritime Rescue Coordination Centres and Joint Rescue Coordination Centres with advanced skills in coordination, execution, and evaluation”.

The workshop is delivered through the IMO’s Integrated Technical Cooperation Programme (ITCP) and supports the implementation of the International Convention on Maritime Search and Rescue (SAR), 1979, and relevant provisions of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) 1974, taking into account guidelines contained in the International Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue (IAMSAR) Manual.

By strengthening operational coordination and fostering regional cooperation, the workshop is contributing to global efforts to enhance SAR capabilities, in line with international maritime safety standards and the UN sustainable development goals.

Stock: IMO