Protection of the Marine Environment through IMO within the System of International Institutions

The PSSA concept is one of an array of instruments governed by IMO. It would be premature to examine the implications of PSSAs without having explored the competences assigned to the IMO. Since IMO is not the only international organisation dealing with maritime matters, it is necessary to put its activities into context by precisely defining the scope of the various organisations’ activities in the maritime field. It is also important to take note of the general legal principles that mould and constrain the legislative competences of international organisations. In so doing, this chapter should shed some light on the constraints IMO is subjected to in carrying out its duties.