NGO is a shortcut for --->'Non-Governmental Organizations'.
In the maritime context NGOs are private organizations that operate independently from government control and work towards humanitarian or environmental goals. In the maritime industry, NGOs can be involved in various activities, such as:
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Maritime conservation: NGOs like Greenpeace and Sea Shepherd work to protect the ocean environment and marine life from activities such as overfishing, pollution, and habitat destruction.
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Humanitarian aid: NGOs like Mercy Ships and Doctors Without Borders provide medical assistance and support to people in need in maritime regions.
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Maritime safety: NGOs like the International Maritime Rescue Federation and the Seafarers' Trust work towards improving the safety and welfare of seafarers.
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Maritime law and policy: NGOs like the International Maritime Organization and the International Chamber of Shipping work towards the development of international maritime law and policy.
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Research and education: NGOs like the Marine Conservation Society and the Oceanographic Society conduct research and education on maritime-related topics.
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Disaster relief: NGOs like the Red Cross and Save the Children provide emergency relief and support to communities affected by maritime disasters such as tsunamis and hurricanes.
Other similar terms in the maritime context include:
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IMO - International Maritime Organization: A specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for improving maritime safety and preventing marine pollution.
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ILO - International Labour Organization: A United Nations agency that sets international labor standards, including those for the maritime industry.
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Flag state: The country under whose laws a ship is registered.
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Port state: The country where a ship is located and where it must comply with local regulations and inspections.
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Classification society: An organization that verifies that ships comply with international safety and environmental standards, and assigns classification and certification to ships accordingly.