Dr Melis Özdel Examines the Evolving Role of the CMI’s Working Group in Regulating Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships
Dr Melis Özdel has written a chapter for the forthcoming book “Regulating Unmanned Vessels“, which is currently in press.
Chapter Summary:
The chapter examines the evolving role of the Comité Maritime International (CMI)’s International Working Group on MASS, focusing on the group’s legal contributions to the regulation of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) since its establishment and outlining the complex legal tasks undertaken by the working group, and how its role and influence have expanded over time.
While the group’s primary function has been to support the CMI’s broader mission of addressing urgent legal challenges posed by MASS, it has also taken an increasingly proactive stance on foundational legal questions, particularly regarding the appropriate liability regime for autonomous maritime systems.
The chapter also presents the author’s critical reflections on several ongoing contentious issues within the international legal community, including among members of the working group, arguing against the adoption of a blanket strict liability regime for MASS, and instead advocating for preserving elements of the status quo, particularly fault-based liability principles, where appropriate. The author’s position emphasises the need for contextual sensitivity, given the diversity of technologies, actors, and risk profiles involved in MASS operations.
This contribution not only documents the internal legal debates within the CMI’s working structures but also puts forward normative suggestions for future regulatory frameworks that aim to balance innovation, legal certainty, and fairness.
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