The importance of the program lies in its strategic approach to maritime security, considering that approximately 90% of global trade is transported by sea and that the seas and oceans are vital for global food security. Additionally, the seas offer critical routes for international communication and trade. Challenges such as illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing not only threaten biodiversity and marine ecosystems but also put food security and the economies of coastal nations at risk.
The program focuses on developing personalized strategies for each country or armed service, with the objective of promoting effective policies, improving the functioning of institutions and processes in the security of their maritime areas. This implies achieving good maritime situational awareness at the hemispheric level and carrying out training, education and dissemination activities on topics of general interest related to maritime security.
The implementation of the program is supported by three main pillars: "Shared Hemispheric Maritime Situational Awareness", "Strategy Development" and "Capacity Development". These pillars range from the collection and analysis of information to the formulation and application of specific strategies adapted to the needs of each country. The program emphasizes collaboration with member states, strategic partners and organizations, seeking to effectively address maritime security challenges through a cyclical Action Plan that includes diagnosis, strategy design, implementation and evaluation.
The IADB carries out this program in close collaboration with member states, observers, the Inter-American Naval Conference and specialized organizations. Emphasis is placed on the formation of key partnerships that allow strategies to be adapted to the reality of each country or armed service, thus promoting a more effective and sustainable approach to maritime security. This includes joint work with international organizations, universities and think tanks, essential for the success of the program.
In summary, the IADB Maritime Security Program is a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening maritime security in the hemisphere, through advice, training, and the promotion of effective policies and practices. Its success depends on the active collaboration of member states, strategic partnerships and a shared commitment to the continuous improvement of maritime security capabilities in the region.
The Inter-American Defense Board (IADB) is an institution of the Organization of American States (OAS) that promotes cooperation in security and defense among the countries of the Americas, facilitating dialogue and collaboration on military and civil issues.
