Arsenio Dominguez Appointed as the Next Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) recently announced the appointment of Arsenio Dominguez as its next Secretary-General. Dominguez, a seasoned maritime executive with a wealth of experience spanning over two decades, is set to take the helm at a pivotal time for the organization and the broader maritime sector. He will take over with effect from 1 January 2024
Born and raised in the Republic of Panama, Dominguez graduated with a Bachelor of science degree in 1988 from the Fermin nadueu Institute in Panama. He went on to study Naval Architecture at the University of Veracruz, Mexico, graduating in 1995. Mr. Dominguez Velasco also holds an MBA from the University of Hull, and a Certificate of Higher Education in International Law and European Politics from Birkbeck University, both in the United Kingdom.
His maritime career began in 1996 as a port engineer at Armadores del Caribe in Panama before moving to become a Drydock Assistant Manager at Braswell Shipyard.
In 1998 Mr. Dominguez Velasco moved to London to join the Panama Maritime Authority as Head of the Technical and Documentation Regional Office for Europe and North of Africa. He went on to represent Panama in a variety of roles at the organization, culminating in 2014 with his appointment as Panama's Ambassador and Permanent Representative to IMO until 2017.
Between 2014 and 2017, Mr. Dominguez Velasco chaired IMO's Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC), and in 2015 he chaired the Technical Committee of the 25th session of the IMO Assembly. Prior to this, between 2010 and 2014, he chaired the Maritime Security – Piracy and Armed Robbery Working Group under the auspices of the organization's Maritime Safety Committee
Dominguez's appointment comes at a time when the maritime industry is undergoing significant changes. With increasing environmental concerns and the advent of digitalization, the sector is grappling with new challenges and opportunities. As Secretary-General, Dominguez will be at the forefront of navigating these shifts.
One of the key challenges that await Dominguez in his new role is the environmental impact of shipping. As the international regulatory body for the maritime sector, the IMO is under mounting pressure to reduce the industry's carbon footprint. The organization has already set ambitious goals to cut greenhouse gas emissions from shipping, but achieving these targets will require strong leadership and effective policy implementation. Dominguez's background in environmental regulation will be invaluable in this regard.
In addition to the environmental challenge, Dominguez will also need to oversee the digital transformation of the maritime industry. The advent of technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and automated vessels has the potential to revolutionize shipping. However, these technologies also raise new issues around cybersecurity, safety, and regulation. Dominguez's experience in managing change and navigating regulatory challenges will be critical in steering the IMO through this period of digital disruption.
The COVID-19 pandemic has also underscored the importance of the maritime sector as a vital link in global supply chains. The crisis has highlighted vulnerabilities in these chains and the need for greater resilience. As Secretary-General, Dominguez will need to work with member states and industry stakeholders to address these issues and ensure the robustness of international shipping.
Dominguez's appointment as Secretary-General of the IMO is a testament to his extensive experience, leadership skills and commitment to the maritime sector. His understanding of the industry, coupled with his proven ability to manage change and drive regulatory reform, make him well positioned to lead the IMO into a new era. As he takes on the role, the maritime industry will be watching closely to see how he navigates the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.