Overview
- The IMO Assembly in London held secret-ballot elections on Nov. 28 to choose the 40-member Council for the 2026–27 term.
- Russia did not secure a Category A seat and was the only candidate rejected in the group for states with the largest shipping interests.
- China, the United States, the United Kingdom, South Korea, Greece, Italy, Norway, Panama and Liberia were elected to Category A.
- Ukraine urged members to oppose Russia’s bid, while Russia’s transport ministry called the vote unfair and highly politicised.
- India retained a Category B seat with a category-leading 154 of 169 votes, and South Korea secured a 13th consecutive Category A term.