International Maritime Organization and Civil Liability for Offshore Oil Pollution

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is considered a specialized agency responsible for regulating various maritime issues, including civil liability for offshore oil pollution. The important point in this regard is to identify and operationalize the process of compensation for damage to people and the marine environment. This descriptive-analytical study hence aims to evaluate the performance of IMO in terms of civil liability for offshore oil pollution. This study also discusses the liabilities of ships carrying oil products and how they compensate for possible damage and loss. The first issue raised after any marine accident causing oil pollution is the liabilities of the shipowner and how they should compensate for the damage and losses. According to the International Convention on Civil Liability for Oil Pollution Damage (CLC), the owners of oil tankers are responsible for adequate compensation for damage and losses caused by oil pollution. In fact, IMO has developed a unique and complete legal system for civil liability for offshore oil pollution. The main objective of this study is to evaluate the scope, characteristics, and legal functions of international conventions in this regard. In fact, the general principles of these conventions are evaluated that and then their features, functions, weaknesses, and strengths will be described.