On Wednesday morning, February 19, at 10:36 AM local time in Singapore, a vote was held in IALA to determine whether the Faroe Islands could gain associate membership in the organization. No votes were cast against, meaning we received full approval.
As a result, we are now officially "Associated Members of IALA."
This is the first general assembly of IALA since the organization changed its status from a non-governmental organization (NGO) to an intergovernmental organization (IGO).
The Faroe Islands originally became a member of IALA in July 2024, shortly after taking over responsibility for lighthouse authority and aids to navigation. However, since IALA transitioned from an NGO to an IGO—leading to changes in statutes and regulations—it was necessary to reapply for membership.
The general assembly is taking place in Singapore this week, with around 400 participants from 65 countries, including government officials, maritime leaders, and other representatives. Representing the Faroe Islands from the Maritime Authority are Director Hans Johannes á Brúgv and Head of Lighthouses and Marine Marking, Asbjørn Østerø.
IALA stands for the International Organization for Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities. In essence, the transition from NGO to IGO grants the organization more formal authority and binding powers. However, it also means that IALA is now subject to political agreements between countries rather than operating independently.
Here is the leadership of IALA pictured together with the Faroese representatives.
From left to right: Francis Zachariae, Secretary-General; Hans Johannes á Brúgv, Faroese Maritime Authority; Marcos L. de Almeida, President; Asbjørn Østerø, Faroese Maritime Authority; and Omar Frits Eriksson, Deputy Secretary-General.
