Dr. Rosalie Balkin wins International Maritime Award

Dr. Rosalin Balkin, Secretary-General of the Comité Maritime International (CMI), who was nominated by the Government of Australia, was honoured with a Silver Dolphin Trophy at the annual IMO Awards Ceremony, held in London on 24 November 2025 in a ceremony that followed the first day of the 34th session of the IMO Assembly, taking place from 24 November to 3 December 2025.   

Photo Courtesy: IMO

IMO Secretary-General Mr. Arsenio Dominguez commended her five-decade career, which saw her breaking new ground, including becoming the first woman to lead the CMI, the world’s oldest organization focused on unifying international maritime law, since its inception in 1897. He stated: “Dr. Balkin life’s work reflects an exceptional combination of excellence, integrity, and a firm commitment to advancing the global maritime community.”  

While receiving the Prize, Dr. Balkin reflected on her achievements in her acceptance speech saying; “May I say how very proud and lucky I feel to have been given the opportunity to participate in the work of IMO and its related organisations. It is indeed a wondrous thing to be so richly rewarded for doing the work I still love to do." 

Dr. Balkin also has an impressive tenure serving in IMO at various positions. She was the first woman appointed as the Director of Legal Affairs and External Relations Division at IMO (1998-2013) and later the first female Assistant Secretary-General (2011-2013). During her tenure at IMO, Dr. Balkin oversaw several landmark diplomatic conferences that led to the adoption of new international conventions on maritime safety, pollution liability, wreck removal, and passenger protection.

The awards ceremony also honoured seafarers for exceptional bravery at sea.