Which authority primarily oversees compliance with maritime security measures?

The U.S. Coast Guard is the primary authority overseeing compliance with maritime security measures within the United States. This agency is responsible for enforcing regulations that ensure the safety and security of the nation’s waterways and ports. It plays a critical role in implementing the provisions of the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, which establishes guidelines for maintaining maritime security.

The U.S. Coast Guard conducts inspections, oversees security drills, and ensures that maritime security protocols are followed by vessels and port facilities. Their authority extends to enforcing laws and regulations that are vital for national security, which encompasses not only security measures but also maritime safety and environmental protection.

While the International Maritime Organization provides a global framework for maritime security, it does not directly enforce compliance. Local shipping companies and the United Nations have respective roles but are not the primary authority for overseeing compliance in maritime security measures in the same way the U.S. Coast Guard is.