Legal experts from nations associated with the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) have met in Bahrain to discuss legal issues that routinely affect the 29-nation multinational force.

CMF held their second Maritime Security Operations Legal Workshop in Bahrain between 28 April and 1 May 2013.

Attendees to the Second Maritime Security Operations Legal Workshop at CMF Headquarters in Bahrain
Attendees to the Second Maritime Security Operations Legal Workshop at CMF Headquarters in Bahrain

Lawyers from a number of nations including Australia, Denmark, Germany, Jordan, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom, the United States of America and Yemen attended the Workshop at CMF Headquarters.

The aim of the Workshop was to introduce lawyers from the Armed Forces of CMF partner nations across the globe to the legal issues that effect CMF on a daily basis.

The lawyers had the opportunity to hear presentations from key organisations who work in Maritime Security Operations, including the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.

Lieutenant Clint Maynard, Royal Australian Navy, CMF Assistant Legal Advisor, said: “The CMF Legal Workshop provides an excellent opportunity for lawyers with limited exposure to operational law of the sea issues to begin developing that understanding, while also having the chance to build professional networks across the CMF partnership.”

In an address to the assembled legal experts, Commodore Simon Ancona, Royal Navy, Deputy Commander CMF, explained the unique position of CMF in being able to attract speakers and attendees from a vast array of organisations.

He said: “The CMF Legal Workshop provides a fantastic opening to progress the legal understanding within regional maritime forces and the environment in which they operate.

“The ability of CMF to bring together multinational skill sets and experience, in order to discuss the legal issues faced when operating throughout the CMF area of operations allows for greater understanding and identification of future issues.

“It is hoped that the CMF Legal Workshop will become a key feature in the calendar of maritime operational lawyers and continue to attract high calibre speakers from organisations from across the globe.”