International Maritime Organization leadership

The concept of e-navigation was developed under the guidance of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), a United Nations agency with responsibility for the safety and security of shipping and the prevention of marine pollution by ships.

The IMO defines e-navigation as the “harmonized collection, integration, exchange and presentation of maritime information onboard and ashore by electronic means to enhance berth-to-berth navigation and related services, for safety and security at sea and protection of the marine environment.”

E-navigation is expected to increase safety and security in commercial shipping through better organization of data on ships and on shore, as well as to improve data exchange and communications.

The IMO has been working on an e-navigation strategy in cooperation with the International Hydrographic Organization and the International Association of Lighthouse Authorities, as well as member countries of the United Nations.