The Guidelines aim to assist States in effectively exercising their jurisdiction and control over vessels that fly their flag by establishing a system for ensuring compliance with national laws, regulations and other measures through which Convention No. 188 is implemented. Convention No. 188 requires States to have, as appropriate, inspections, reporting, monitoring, complaint procedures, appropriate penalties and corrective measures, in accordance with national laws or regulations.
The Guidelines are intended to provide flag States with supplementary practical information and guidance that can be adapted to reflect national laws and other measures through which Convention No. 188 is implemented. They may be used by any government that finds them helpful.
