ABSTRACT
In the mid-twentieth century Liberia began what has become one of its leading industries, shipping registration. One area of the economy that remains strong, however, is the international shipping registry. Because it is still a flag of convenience for shipping companies to fly on their vessels, over 1,600 ships now fly a Liberian flag. Liberia began open registration of ships in 1949 and grew to be the largest registry of ships in the world by 1993. The ships registered in Liberia are subject to mandatory annual inspections that are based on international standards. Liberia maintains a worldwide network of nautical inspectors who conduct in-port inspections. While it may be beneficial for shipping companies to register their ships in Liberia, it is clear, with the current political and human rights situation in that country, that doing so represents a poor ethical choice.
