Belgium has lost its seat at the United Nations' International Maritime Organisation (IMO) council, according to a statement from the country's Nautical Authority (DG Navigation) on Monday.
Last Friday, the IMO's 175 members voted on the council's forthcoming composition, which consists of 40 countries and holds a two-year mandate. Given the slight overrepresentation of the European Union in the council, Belgium is now leaving it, having been a member since 2009.
Peter Claeyssens, DG Navigation Director General, stated that the decision will not significantly impact operations but it can "affect the image." He assured that no redundancies would be made at DG Navigation due to the decision.
Claeyssens mentioned that Europe's unpalatable stand, particularly towards Russia, a major maritime power, could have influenced the result. This refers to Europe's stance concerning the ongoing invasion of Ukraine, which some have not appreciated on an international scale.
Support from small Pacific Island states did not favour Belgium. "Although we released €200,000 to boost their influence within the organisation, they are now fully exposed to the impact of climate change," the Director General added.
Despite losing its voting rights, Belgium can still attend IMO meetings.
