As the number of lives lost during maritime migration rises and operational pressures on both state-led and civilian search and rescue services increase, the need to acknowledge the ocean as a humanitarian space has become more pressing than ever. This theme was at the heart of the panel discussion “Seas as Humanitarian Spaces: Strengthening Search and Rescue Operations for Sustainable Ocean Stewardship,” which took place at the 2025 UN Oceans Conference.

The session, moderated by Patrick Eba, Deputy Director of UNHCR’s Division of International Protection, brought together an international panel of SAR professionals, legal experts, diplomats, and humanitarian leaders. They examined how international law, humanitarian principles, and practical coordination can better protect individuals in distress at sea.

Representing the IMRF, Programme Manager Steve Wills addressed the growing challenges faced by search and rescue (SAR) services worldwide. He pointed out that the demand for mass rescue operations is rising rapidly, often outpacing the capabilities of traditional SAR agencies.

“We are seeing a growing demand for mass rescue operations (MROs). SAR agencies are often under-equipped to respond effectively to large-scale emergencies, especially in migration contexts. Commercial and fishing vessels are increasingly involved in these efforts yet lack the support they need.”

Steve emphasised that new tools are necessary for SAR actors to adapt and highlighted the updated IMRF guidance on MRO, which includes a dedicated chapter on migration-related scenarios. He also introduced the Global Maritime SAR Systems Review, which was launched in early June in partnership with Lloyd’s Register Foundation. The Review will be the first initiative of its kind, assessing global SAR capacities and anticipating challenges over the next two decades.

Speakers from across the humanitarian and governmental sectors underlined the urgency of Steve’s points. H.E. Kadra Ahmed Hassan, Permanent Representative of Djibouti to the United Nations, discussed the role of national coastguards and international partnerships in managing arrivals and protecting vulnerable individuals. Siobhan Mullaly, UN Special Rapporteur on Trafficking in Persons, outlined the human rights framework that underpins the duty to rescue and the protection of life at sea.

Anna Bowen from the International Federation of the Red Cross highlighted the critical role humanitarian principles play in maritime operations and the increasing legal barriers facing rescue NGOs. Bianca Benvenuti of SOS MEDITERRANEE shared operational insights from one of the world’s deadliest migration routes, while Tengku Miftach Tjut Adek described the life-saving customs and local laws upheld by Acehnese fishing communities in Indonesia.

These discussions underscored a shared understanding among participants: humanitarian collaboration remains essential. Effective maritime rescue operations depend on strong partnerships between national coastguards, SAR organisations, and humanitarian organisations. While international legal frameworks provide a foundation for maritime protection, clearer guidance is needed to ensure consistent implementation across regions and situations.

The growing involvement of non-SAR vessels in rescues further accentuates the need for enhanced training, effective communication, and robust support. Looking ahead, tools such as the IMRF’s updated MRO guidance and the Global Maritime SAR Systems Review will be crucial in ensuring that maritime SAR systems are ready to meet both current and future challenges.

For more information on the IMRF’s work or the Mass Rescue Operations guidance, please contact Steve Wills at [email protected] or visit www.international-maritime-rescue.org.