Maritime Law in Motion - New WMU Publication
Maritime Law in Motion is the latest publication in the WMU Studies in Maritime Affairs book series. It provides valuable insights into various contemporary issues in public and private maritime law, including interdisciplinary aspects.

“With 37 chapters, Maritime Law in Motion is an exceptional, interdisciplinary collection of insight to contemporary maritime law. The book assembles the work of an impressive inter-generational selection of highly accomplished and versatile maritime law scholars, together representing no less than 22 nationalities. Among the contributors from WMU are nine faculty members, a professor emeritus, and two PhD graduates. At WMU, we are proud to continue making invaluable maritime knowledge available to the wider industry. The importance of maritime law cannot be underestimated in the global society in which we live today,” said Dr. Cleopatra Doumbia-Henry, President of WMU.
Public law topics addressed include public international law and law of the sea, while a variety of private law topics are explored, e.g. commercial maritime law, conflict of laws, and new developments in the application of advanced technologies to maritime law issues. In addition, the book highlights current and topical discussions at international maritime forums such as the International Maritime Organization on regulatory and private law matters within the domain of marine environmental law, international law relating to seafarers, maritime pedagogics, maritime security, comparative law in the maritime field, trade law, recent case law, taxation law in the maritime context, maritime arbitration, carriage of passengers, port law, and limitation of liability. It is edited by Professors Proshanto K. Mukherjee, Maximo Q. Mejia Jr., and Jingjing Xu. The electronic and print version of the book can be ordered through Springer publications.
The book series, WMU Studies in Maritime Affairs, was launched in 2013 to inspire scholars from all walks of maritime life to contribute to the creation and advancement of knowledge in the numerous maritime disciplines through publications of the highest order of excellence. With the series, the World Maritime University aims to lead an expansion of scholarly pursuits, particularly in the areas of maritime law and policy, maritime safety and environmental administration, maritime education and training, marine environmental and ocean management, port management, and shipping management. The current editors for the series are Professors Dong-Wook Song and Jens-Uwe Schröder-Hinrichs. Maritime Law in Motion was produced by the immediate past editorial team of Professors Jens-Uwe Schröder-Hinrichs, Maximo Q. Mejia Jr., and Aykut Ölcer.

My decision to enroll in the doctoral program at WMU was heavily influencedby my prior experience as a Master's student at the institution. Initiallyintroduced to me as a preeminent global institution for maritime education,WMU's stellar reputation was further substantiated by the exceptional qualityof education I received during my Master’s studies. This experience became acompelling factor in my determination to return to WMU as a doctoral student.Recognizing the synergies between my research aspirations and the institutionalofferings at WMU, I concluded that continuing my educational journey at thisesteemed institution was not only beneficial but also aligned perfectly with myacademic and professional goals.
My research explored thetheoretical foundations of governance, placing a particular emphasis onmaritime governance. Going beyond mere theoretical frameworks, the studyconducted a comprehensive examination of a crucial aspect within maritimegovernance—specifically, the implementation of International MaritimeOrganization (IMO) instruments, exploring the contextual factors that affectthe implementation process. Applying the grounded theory methodology, theresearch aimed to understand these theoretical underpinnings, as well as firmlyanchor insights in the practical context of maritime governance; unveiling theintricacies and challenges associated with the effective implementation of IMOinstruments in the maritime domain. The selection of this topic was motivatedby a personal interest that was cultivated during my Master’s studies inmaritime law and policy. Furthermore, it was driven by the recognition of ascarcity of scientific research on this specific topic. This gap in theexisting body of knowledge served as a catalyst for my exploration,underscoring the significance of contributing valuable insights to an area ofmaritime governance that has been relatively underrepresented in scholarlyresearch.
Undoubtedly, a highlight of myeducational journey at WMU was the opportunity to forge connections withinfluential change-makers and thought leaders hailing from every corner of theglobe. This invaluable chance to engage with individuals on an internationalscale has not only enabled me to expand my global network but has also servedas a conduit for immersing myself in the rich tapestry of diverse cultures.Through these global interactions, I've gained a profound understanding ofdifferent perspectives, traditions, and approaches, contributing significantlyto my personal and academic growth. This experience goes beyond mere networkingand has also played a pivotal role in fostering stronger connections within theCaribbean region from which I hail.
Embarking on my professional path,my foremost aim is to establish myself as an authority in the field of maritimegovernance. I aspire to leave a significant and enduring mark on the globalmaritime landscape. Beyond the academic sphere, my drive is fuelled by apassionate interest in pursuing diverse opportunities within the maritimedomain and the broader educational sector and contributing significantly topositive transformations in the global maritime sector.

I was primarily attracted to WMU for its prestigious standing as a globalleader in maritime education and research. The institution's emphasis onsustainability and its diverse international student body were particularlyappealing. My research, which focuses on the transition of ports toward low andnear-zero carbon emissions, perfectly aligns with WMU's dedication tosustainable maritime practices. This common vision made WMU the ideal choicefor advancing my academic and professional aspirations in the maritimeindustry.
A significant highlight of my timeat WMU has been the invaluable opportunity to collaborate with a diverse groupof experts and peers from various corners of the globe. This internationalenvironment has broadened my perspective on maritime issues and fostered a richexchange of ideas. It has been a rewarding experience to engage in discussions,share insights, and work collectively toward innovative solutions to complexmaritime challenges.
Post-graduation, I am committed toapplying the knowledge and research expertise I've acquired at WMU to make ameaningful impact in the maritime sector. My plans involve activelycontributing to the sustainable transformation of the industry by focusing onthe implementation of greener and more efficient port operations. I aim to playa part in fostering a cleaner and more sustainable future for ports andshipping on a global scale.

When I made the decision to embark on the journey of pursuing both my MScand PhD degrees, the World Maritime University (WMU) beckoned me for severalcompelling reasons. Foremost among these was WMU's sterling reputation as aworld-class institution within the maritime sphere, a factor that wieldedsignificant influence over my choice. Given my extensive background as a seniorprofessional in the maritime operational field, having held the role of acaptain, I was in search of an academic environment that could serve as a nexusfor both enriching my knowledge and providing a platform for the disseminationof my wealth of industry experience.
WMU's unwavering commitment tomaritime education, coupled with its resolute emphasis on bridging the realmsof academia and industry, deeply resonated with me. It became evident that WMUwas the perfect crucible for my transformation from a career entrenched inmaritime operations to one flourishing within academia. The University'sstoried tradition of nurturing and producing experts and leaders within themaritime sector further solidified its standing as the ideal choice for myeducational pursuits.Furthermore, WMU's distinctive interdisciplinary approachto maritime studies served as an irresistible attraction.
My research focus during my tenureat WMU was centered on the pivotal subject of achieving net-zero emissions inthe maritime sector, encompassing both offshore and onshore infrastructures,including ports and shipyards. This particular research avenue held greatappeal for me due to its unique capacity to amalgamate my extensive practicalexperience as a captain within the maritime operational field with the rigorousacademic environment provided by WMU. The maritime industry is inherentlydynamic, constantly undergoing transformative changes, and I was deeplyconvinced that my research endeavors could significantly contribute toenhancing sustainability within this vital sector. The prospect of influencingpositive change by addressing contemporary challenges and emerging trends inthe maritime industry, all closely aligned with my professional background,served as a compelling motivation for my choice of research focus.
One of the most memorable aspectsof my WMU experience has undoubtedly been the University's vibrant andinclusive interdisciplinary environment. Engaging with both faculty members andfellow students hailing from diverse backgrounds and nationalities has been anincredibly enriching facet of my academic journey. This inclusive atmospherehas offered me a unique opportunity to gain fresh insights and perspectivesthat would have remained undiscovered within the confines of a purely industry-focusedsetting. The collaborative exchange of ideas across various maritimedisciplines has proven to be invaluable, expanding my horizons and enriching myeducational experience. Additionally, the regular involvement in thoughtfuldiscussions, seminars, and workshops focused on globally relevant maritimetopics has served as a consistent source of inspiration throughout my time atWMU. The University’s unwavering dedication to cultivating a global network ofmaritime experts has allowed me to establish meaningful connections withprofessionals and scholars from across the world. These connections have notonly broadened my academic horizons but have also added a global dimension tomy educational journey, enhancing its depth and significance.
Upon graduation, I was awarded aprestigious research fellowship in sustainability, energy, and the pursuit ofnet-zero emissions within the maritime industry at the esteemed University ofSouthampton in the United Kingdom. This exciting opportunity marks the nextphase of my academic and maritime journey. I remain passionately committed tocontinuing my exploration of academia and the maritime sector, building uponthe invaluable knowledge and experience I acquired during my time at WMU. Myprimary objective is to contribute significantly to the advancement of thezero-emission maritime industry, a pivotal and transformative sector within ourglobal community.
