Narahira Wins Top Vote at IOPC Funds Meeting
Overview
From October 20 to 23, 2026, the 31st session of the International Oil Pollution Compensation Funds (IOPC Funds) Assembly and related meetings were held at IMO headquarters in London, United Kingdom. Hiroshi Narahira received the most votes and was elected to the Audit Body. The meetings reported on and discussed responses to oil pollution incidents, levying contributions, the effects of geopolitical events, and preparations for the entry into force of the 2010 HNS Convention.
Key points
- Hiroshi Narahira received the most votes in the election for members of the Audit Body.
- Progress reports and discussions covered 14 oil pollution incidents, and the levying of contributions for 2 cases was approved.
- The meetings discussed the possibility that changes in vessel operations associated with geopolitical events could affect the application of liability and compensation regimes and the Funds' finances.
Overview
From October 20 to 23, 2026, the 31st session of the International Oil Pollution Compensation Funds (IOPC Funds) Assembly and related meetings were held in a hybrid format, in person and online, at International Maritime Organization (IMO) headquarters in London, United Kingdom. Participants included 84 member states and international organizations and bodies with observer status. Attendees from Japan included the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, the Embassy of Japan in the United Kingdom, academic experts, and related organizations.
The Funds were established to provide prompt compensation to victims when tanker accidents cause major oil pollution damage. They are financed by contributions paid by businesses that receive oil transported by tankers. Japan is one of the major contributors.
Impact
Against the backdrop of recent sanctions, armed conflicts, and other geopolitical events, the operation of uninsured or unsafe vessels, vessels flying false flags, and improperly registered vessels has increased. The meetings discussed concerns that these developments could affect the application of international oil pollution liability and compensation regimes and the Funds' finances.
Details
An election was held for members of the Audit Body, which ensures the proper management of the Funds. Hiroshi Narahira, a director of DBJ Research Institute, Inc. who was nominated by Japan, received the most votes and won the top position.
The Assembly received reports on progress in responding to 14 oil pollution incidents and discussed them. It approved levying contributions to compensate for 2 of those cases.
Preparations for the entry into force of the 2010 HNS Convention included developing an online system for reporting cargo quantities and providing training for contracting states. The status of these efforts was reported.