The OPRC Convention established the first international framework requiring states to prepare for and cooperate in responding to marine oil pollution incidents.
Key Facts
- Adopted
- 1990
- Entered into force
- 1995
- State parties (as of Nov 2018)
- 112 countries
- Governing body
- International Maritime Organization
- OPRC-HNS Protocol adopted
- 2000
By the Numbers
Cause → Event → Consequence
Growing concern over marine oil pollution incidents and the lack of a coordinated international response mechanism led to calls for a binding multilateral agreement. The International Maritime Organization provided the institutional framework within which states could negotiate common obligations for preparedness and mutual assistance.
On 30 November 1990, the International Convention on Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Co-operation was adopted under the auspices of the IMO. The convention obligates state parties to establish national systems for responding to oil pollution incidents and to cooperate with other signatory states in combating such events.
Entering into force in 1995, the OPRC Convention grew to 112 state parties by 2018, creating a broad global network for oil spill response coordination. In 2000, its scope was extended through the OPRC-HNS Protocol, which applied the same preparedness and response framework to incidents involving hazardous and noxious substances.
Political Outcome
Convention adopted, entering into force in 1995; 112 state parties as of November 2018; extended by the OPRC-HNS Protocol in 2000.