How the New Rescue at Sea Guide Strenghtens Search and Rescue
Published on
July 7, 2026

Revisions by IMO / UNHCR / ICS
The revised Rescue at Sea guide provides more detailed practical guidance on the rescue and disembarkation of refugees and migrants in distress at sea.
The updated edition clarifies the roles of masters, MRCCs and Governments, strengthens guidance on place of safety and disembarkation, and reinforces the importance of protection safeguards, including non-refoulement.
As maritime routes remain deadly across multiple regions, this is an important operational resource for actors navigating increasingly complex rescue environments.
