As 2024 comes to a close, the IMRF reflects on a year filled with transformative milestones, groundbreaking initiatives, and a continued commitment to leading the global maritime search and rescue (SAR) community. From celebrating our 100th anniversary to launching pivotal new programmes, this year has been one of progress, collaboration, and forward-thinking solutions.

Key Achievements and Highlights of 2024:

• 100th Anniversary Celebration: This year marked a monumental moment in our history as we celebrated our centenary. Since 1924, the IMRF has been dedicated to improving maritime SAR capacity, and our anniversary was both a time of reflection and anticipation for the next 100 years of advancing SAR practices globally. We marked this milestone with a special event attended by IMRF Patron Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence and prominent industry leaders, celebrating a century of life-saving efforts.
• Launch of Key Initiatives: The IMRF kicked off the year with the annual Forward Look webinar in January, followed by the launch of the #SARyouOK? mental health and wellbeing guidance document in February. This initiative offers SAR organisations vital resources to support personnel in coping with stress and trauma, enhancing mental resilience across the sector.
• Expanding SAR Expertise: In February, we launched the Maritime SAR Aviation Panel to strengthen our understanding and engagement in aviation SAR, which is increasingly critical to modern maritime operations. The creation of this panel marks an important step in adapting to the evolving demands of maritime rescue.
• #FutureSAR Report and Climate Change Impact: March saw the launch of the #FutureSAR report, a timely reflection on the growing impact of climate change on maritime SAR. During the #FutureSAR webinar, experts gathered to explore strategies for adapting to these new challenges, focusing on planning for the future of SAR operations.
• Training and Mentorship Initiatives: In 2024, our #WomenInSAR mentoring scheme flourished, as women from around the globe participated in courses and mentoring programmes. The second #WomenInSAR event held in Finland in August brought together 16 professionals to enhance the roles of women in maritime SAR, part of our ongoing commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in the field.
• Global Collaboration and Engagement: Our international impact continued to grow through efforts such as the 10th Annual Lifeboat Crew Exchange in September, where 51 SAR professionals from around the world shared expertise in SAR exercises. Additionally, we hosted 10 Global Maritime SAR Forums, connecting thousands of professionals and furthering the collective advancement of SAR best practices.
• Advocating for New Technologies: In September, we submitted a position paper to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Maritime Safety Committee, advocating for integrating autonomous ships in SAR operations. This position reflects our ongoing efforts to ensure that emerging technologies, such as remotely operated and autonomous vessels, are fully incorporated into SAR frameworks.
• Expansion of Digital Resources: The IMRF expanded its digital footprint with a revamped members' area and the growth of our online SAR Academy, offering greater access to resources, training, and capacity-building for SAR professionals globally.
• #SaferSAR Campaign and New Funding: Our #SaferSAR initiative secured new funding from the Trinity House Department for Transport fund. In partnership with CHIRP, this funding will help create a global system for SAR personnel to report safety risks and incidents. This is a significant step toward improving safety protocols for SAR professionals at sea.
• EDI Seminar and Annual Meeting: In November, we hosted the IMRF Annual Meeting and the Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Seminar. This event underscored the importance of diversity in the maritime SAR community, fostering meaningful discussions on the latest developments in SAR and the benefits of a diverse and inclusive workforce.

Looking Ahead to 2025:

As we close the year, we are excited about the continued development of initiatives like #FutureSAR and #SaferSAR, as well as the ongoing work to integrate new technologies into global SAR systems. The IMRF is committed to expanding our reach and impact in 2025, with plans to host our first regional meeting in Australia and convene the sixth Mass Rescue Operations conference in Sweden (G6). We will continue to deepen partnerships, engage with our global community, and support the vital work of SAR professionals worldwide.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to our 140 member organisations from over 50 countries, our volunteers, partners, and supporters, whose dedication makes all of this possible. Together, we’ve made significant strides in improving the safety and wellbeing of individuals at sea.

As we look ahead to the new year, we remain steadfast in our mission to improve global SAR capabilities. Here’s to a successful and impactful 2025.