Professional Documents
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Marine Policy
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A R T I C L E I N F O A B S T R A C T
Keywords: This paper reports on the outcome of a comparative analysis of national preparedness relating to maritime policy,
Autonomous shipping legislative frameworks, societal readiness and human resource development for autonomous vessel operations in
Maritime policy selected countries. The study used a systematic literature review to generate four possible scenarios from which
Maritime governance
one was selected as the most plausible for interrogating the state of preparedness of the selected countries. A
Scenario planning
PESTELE analysis
mixed methods approach was then used to gain in-depth insights into the legislative, human resource, and
infrastructure aspects of national preparedness. The resulting analysis and findings, informed by a methodo
logical consideration of various external factors, reveal the unique situation of each of the selected countries
which either impedes or facilitates national preparedness. The existence (or non-existence) of a maritime
transport policy together with its implementation (or non-implementation) of related actions regarding tech
nological readiness reflect whether the conditions in the scenario will be a threat, challenge or opportunity for
that particular country. Despite this, many countries appear not to have addressed the specific issue of readiness
for an autonomous future in shipping, either because of a lack of awareness or because policy makers are pre-
occupied with what is considered to be more pressing public policy matters. The paper concludes by noting
that scenario planning, stakeholder identification and partnerships, as well as explicit policy development
mechanisms geared towards close(r) collaboration between government, industry and academia as drawn from
triple helix theory are required to successfully respond to the possible extreme disruption of autonomous systems
in a maritime context.
* Corresponding author.
E-mail address: ydk@wmu.se (Y. de Klerk).
1
Present address: World Maritime University, Fiskehamnsgatan 1, Box 500, SE 201 24, Malmo, Sweden.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpol.2021.104428
Received 1 July 2020; Received in revised form 14 January 2021; Accepted 3 February 2021
Available online 12 February 2021
0308-597X/© 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Y. de Klerk et al. Marine Policy 127 (2021) 104428
2
The multiplier effect is an economic principle that notes that an injection of A multi-step mixed-methods paradigm was deemed appropriate in
spending in a specific economic sector can lead to a proportional amount of determining industry readiness for autonomous vessel operations as it
increase (or decrease) in final and overall financial outcomes depending on the “combines quantitative and qualitative research techniques, methods,
effect of the initial spending on related economic sectors.
3 approaches, concepts or language into a single study” [17] Pragmatism
There are vessels on order today which cannot be described as having high
as a research paradigm embraces plurality of methods [18,19] and thus
levels of autonomy. Considering that shipbuilding is highly capital intensive,
and that such ships normally have a lifetime of 25–30 years, it is not realistic to allowed the study to integrate both qualitative and quantitative data
suppose that highly autonomous ships will replace all traditional ships in the collection methods and forms of data analyses [20] to answer the
next three decades. The most logical prediction over these decades will have to research questions. To cite Manuel [21], “We neither have to be bound
envision a scenario where ships of different autonomous levels (from no auto by Durkheimian positivism nor by Weberian ‘Versterhen’ … Practicality
mation to highly automated) operate in international waters together. demands that methods are blended and used to best ends for the
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Y. de Klerk et al. Marine Policy 127 (2021) 104428
research focus at hand”. documents were qualitatively coded using the Atlas.ti Qualitative
The first method applied was a systematic literature review (SLR) Data Analysis software programme (version 8.4.4). The next meth
conducted to generate four autonomous future scenarios. From the odological step was to use the Word Cruncher feature of the Atlas.ti
generated scenarios the most plausible scenario was deduced logically software to highlight the number of specific words relating to time
with reference to highest likelihood. Subsequently, a comparative frame, technology and area of operation.
analysis of four specific national jurisdictions was conducted with spe
cific reference to this most plausible scenario. The countries were 3.2. Scenario generation
selected following various qualifying criteria such as degree of
involvement in research development and innovation as well as the A scenario is defined as a “coherent, internally consistent and plau
potential impact of autonomous shipping on maritime labour supply and sible description of a possible future state of the world. It is not a fore
to afford a degree of global representation. cast; rather, each scenario is one alternative image of how the future can
Following the SLR, the following methods were used to collect data unfold” [23]. Scenario generation and planning offer the opportunity to
to inform the comparative analysis: a questionnaire; semi-structured consider how changing social, technological, economic and political
interviews; standard focus groups as well as a variation of the stan factors can lead to multiple futures. The validity of the scenarios
dard focus group approach referred to in this work as quasi-focus generated depend largely on the ability of the generation process to be
groups. (1) exhaustive in the coverage of all relevant areas and (2) the accuracy
of the prediction of how these factors will change and how they influ
3.1. Systematic literature review (SLR) for scenario-generation ence each other. The challenge lies very much with the latter and also
the near impossibility of knowing all the new and generative factors and
The aim of the SLR was to ascertain, choose and critically appraise drivers that do not exist in extant circumstances. Furthermore, scenarios
appropriate literature addressing the degree to which technology would are significantly influenced by perceived drivers which may be evident
impact the operationalisation of autonomous shipping and thus to in clear trends, but also in unanticipated triggers, shocks and risks.
determine different possible scenarios. Iterative cycles of stakeholder engagement consisting of three steps -
idea generation, idea integration and scenario description, and scenario
a. Planning the review evaluation are considered invaluable in designing scenarios which help
Full text literature in the English language were sourced from the generate and communicate various ideas about the future [24]. The
online EBSCO Library ‘Discovery Search’ Database4 after careful difficulty of scenario planning is also exacerbated by the fact that both
consideration of criteria for inclusion (government and industry re predictable trends and unanticipated shocks (as pertains in the policy
ports on autonomous shipping/technology) and exclusion (literature paradigm of “punctuated equilibrium” [see Ref. 25]) may have a tem
published before 2015 and non-related abstracts) criteria. The limi poral scope that is undeterminable [26,27]. The SLR was meant to
tation to post-2015 literature arose from an examination of internet- reduce these difficulties by examining different research-based litera
based keyword use5 which showed that the relevant key words only tures so as to address as many issues as was possible within the scope of
showed significant use after 2015. SmartText Searching included the this research.
following key words and phrases: Fourth Industrial Revolution; Four scenarios, which were temporally separated according to the
autonomous; shipping; maritime; automation and jobs; autonomous years 2020, 2025, 2035, and 2040, were generated following the SLR.
ships. These are summarised in Table 2.
b. Collecting and evaluating sources The systematic review suggested a leaning toward the anticipation of
A breakdown of the documents obtained, screened and analysed autonomous shipping being global by 2040. The scope of the research
are presented in Table 1. The work informing the table is based on was limited to Scenario Delta, as this was deemed to be the most plau
the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta- sible scenario to explore countries’ readiness, considering the lead time
Analyses (PRISMA) flow diagram [22]. to respond in preparation for 2040.
c. Analysis of SLR data Following the SLR, the other methods in the mixed-methods para
As indicated in Table 1, the final number of studies included in the digm were used to gain answers to the other research questions.
analysis was eighteen (18). These were assessed from a content
perspective for their suitability in meeting the search criteria. The 3.3. Country selection
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Y. de Klerk et al. Marine Policy 127 (2021) 104428
in autonomous shipping through research and development, innovation 3.6. Focus group discussions
and testing; existence of an established/active national maritime cluster
engaged in autonomous shipping activities; active engagement in dis Focus group discussions were undertaken in South Africa to ascertain
cussions relating to maritime autonomous surface ships (MASS) at IMO. what specific action, if any, government and training institutions are
This first set of criteria led to the inclusion of Norway and Singapore. taking in preparation of MASS. Similar discussions naturally emerged
Indeed, the Norwegian Government actively supports R&D in the field of among industry experts in Philippines during an educational visit there.
autonomous shipping and the first fully-autonomous, electric and These discussions occurred without the overt facilitation of the research
zero-emission ship in the world is about to enter into operation. team.7 As such, in the context of this research, the Philippine discussions
Singapore is a big shipping hub in Asia and is actively involved in R&D are referred to as quasi-focus group discussions.
and innovation, which includes initiatives relating to autonomous ports
and autonomous ships. A second set of criteria considered the existence 3.7. Ethics
of a strong governmental focus on developing the Blue Economy, the
degree to which autonomous shipping operations could impact on All the research instruments were cleared for ethical appropriate
socio-economic indicators in particular seafarer supply. This latter set of ness, through appropriate assurances of anonymity/confidentiality and
criteria led to the inclusion of South Africa and Philippines. The South the ensuring of no harm to respondents.
African government-led Operation Phakisa is looking at unlocking the
ocean economy and job creation opportunities in the maritime sector. 3.8. Respondent profile
“The oceans have the potential to contribute up to 177 billion rand to the
Gross Domestic Product and create just over one million jobs by 2033′′ A per-country breakdown of the fifty-eight participants (50 male and
[30]. Philippines is the second largest labour supplying country globally 8 female) is found in Table 3.
(with the widest representation across all flags): largest supplier for Fig. 1 gives a per country breakdown of the expertise profile of the
Ratings and second largest for Officers [31]. The selection of these ju research participants.
risdictions enabled deeper insight into regional perspectives i.e. Europe,
Asia, Africa.
4. Data analysis
3.4. Questionnaire (survey) All interviews and focus group discussions were transcribed and
imported into a Computer-Aided Qualitative Data Analysis Software
The online questionnaire was generated using Google Forms.6 The (CAQDAS). Specifically, Atlas.ti (version 8.4.4) was used for the quali
questionnaire consisted of 14 questions in total. Questions included one tative analysis. There were 150 initial codes generated, including
“readiness scale” ranging from 1 to 10 for each key theme and further expertise of respondents, gaps identified, justifications (as follow-up
open-ended questions to offer participants the opportunity to elaborate. responses to the perceived level of preparedness), skills required, and
The benefit of using questionnaire-based surveys is that one has the policy and regulations. Following initial analyses, some of the codes
potential to obtain specific data from a large sample in a relatively were subsequently grouped according to PESTELE factors for further
efficient manner [32]. The questionnaire was piloted and then distrib analysis per country.
uted to a target group of maritime experts, individuals representing
maritime and port administrations, MET institutions, and seafarers in
4.1. PESTELE analysis
the respective jurisdictions. The questionnaire method primarily yielded
data for quantitative analysis while data from the other methods were
PESTELE analyses include examinations of the political, economic,
primarily qualitatively analysed. However, data from open questions in
social, technological, environmental, legal, and ethical factors which
the questionnaire also gave qualitative data. Further, the qualitatively
may impact on operations. Political factors refer to political will, gov
coded data was used as input for quantitative analysis.
ernment stability, stakeholder engagement, geo-political relationships,
and others; economic factors indicate, for example, blue economy,
3.5. Interviews maritime trade and GDP, and infrastructure; social factors can be un
derstood as, for instance, career dispositions, traditions, technological
A semi-structured interview instrument was generated, consisting of savviness, education system, and opportunity costs of maritime
five (jurisdiction-specific) questions which addressed the nature of the employment; technological factors include manufacturing and infra
policies required to prepare the maritime industry to remain relevant structure, internet connectivity, and technological options, among
and competitive considering increased automation on board and others; environmental factors are regarded as geographical location,
remotely controlled/autonomous vessel operations on shore by 2035; sustainable operations, and others; legal factors are regulatory frame
the qualifications/competencies envisaged as necessary for autonomous work, policies, and implementation process; and finally, ethical factors
vessel operations; the changes that would be required to the existing are such as loss of livelihood due to automation, equal opportunity,
education system to attract and train the future workforce; the future
qualification/competencies future maritime educators may require to
Table 3
prepare graduates for increased automation.
Number of participants per country.
This instrument was primarily and purposively targeted at specific
Questionnaire Quasi-/Focus group Interview Total
key informants in the selected jurisdictions. This was done to improve
comprehension of the issues confronting the respondents’ jurisdictions Norway 4 2 6
[and some of their perceptions of underlying causes and influences of Singapore 3 1 4
South Africa 18 14 32
such issues]. A semi-structured approach was taken to help retain the
Philippines 12 4 16
focus of the research while allowing for new insights and respondent
freedom to contribute what they considered meaningful.
6
Note was taken of the fact that Google services are not available in all na
7
tional jurisdictions. It was ensured that the Google Platform was available in all It was nevertheless ensured that all research ethics requirements were
the selected countries prior to disseminating the questionnaire. respected.
4
Y. de Klerk et al. Marine Policy 127 (2021) 104428
Seafarer 0 Seafarer 1
Regulator 2 Regulator 1
Other 0 Other 0
Industry_consultant 2 Industry_consultant 2
Academic 2 Academic 0
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18
Seafarer 2 Seafarer 4
Regulator 1 Regulator 1
Other 1 Other 2
Industry_consultant 9 Industry_consultant 4
Academic 19 Academic 5
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18
philosophical issues concerning the role of machines/technology, vis- of data is converted so the mean becomes 0 (zero) and the standard
à-vis humanity. A key focus of a PESTELE analysis is to identify and deviation is 1 (one). This enabled country comparison between scores
analyse factors external to an entity (e.g. an organization), over which it that are from different normal distributions by converting the mean to
has little or no control and which may have some impact on that entity. zero (0) [34].
These factors are unique to particular settings and organisations, and in
the case of autonomous shipping, the national jurisdiction, culture and 5. Results
geopolitical context of the country. Technological literacy, infrastruc
ture and social acceptance of increased technological advances, as well 5.1. Qualitative analysis outcomes
as human resource competencies related to the evolving technological
scene, are crucial considerations for countries in this regard. 5.1.1. Norway
Once all the documents were coded, statistical data related to the It was found that autonomous shipping is high on the agenda of the
codes was exported from Atlas.ti to Microsoft Excel and descriptive Norwegian government and there is strong collaboration between reg
statistics for each country determined/extracted based on the ques ulators, academia and industry through workshops and discussions.
tionnaire, interviews and focus group outcomes. Preparedness scales There is a dedicated forum - the Norwegian Forum on Autonomous
from research participant responses were coded as follows: Shipping (NFAS) with different working groups - working on autono
mous shipping. The Norwegian Maritime Authority and Norwegian
• 1–3 (the jurisdiction is likely to be unprepared for the chosen Coastal Administration have both visited some educational/training
scenario); institutions to discuss the future industry outlook. There is also a dedi
• 4–7 (the jurisdiction is likely to be moderately prepared for the cated government-funded project called MARKOM2020 which, among
chosen scenario); and other things, compares Norwegian MET to those in other jurisdictions to
• 8–10 (the jurisdiction is likely to be prepared for the chosen ensure a continuing competitive edge for Norway [35]. Currently there
scenario). are auto-crossing and auto-docking tests being carried out on autono
mous ferries, and telecommunication companies like Telenor and Telia
Each individual country’s score was standardised through incorpo are also involved in autonomous shipping projects. Autonomous ship
rating the global mean8 and standard deviation (from this mean) of all ping is also seen as a sustainability issue to drive for future.
the participants/respondents from the four countries combined. The z-
score for each country was also calculated. Z-scores are also referred to 5.1.2. Singapore
as standard scores and represent the number of standard deviations from Singapore as a major shipping hub is actively pursuing research and
the mean data point [33]. Normal distribution scores are standardised to development, and technological innovation to operationalise autono
become z-scores in a standard normal curve. This means that the group mous shipping under its jurisdiction. Training is considered essential. As
such, the Maritime and Port Authority (MPA) has launched a Maritime
Innovation Lab to look into future competency requirements and the
legal framework as a start to autonomous shipping.
8
The global mean refers to the overall mean of the four countries combined
from the total number of respondents.
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Y. de Klerk et al. Marine Policy 127 (2021) 104428
5.1.3. South Africa distribution curves as N, S, SA and P for Norway, Singapore, South Africa
Most responses related to government’s efforts to alleviate high un and Philippines respectively.
employment as a priority. Governance, policies and the education sys
tem were found to be among the challenging areas raised and relate to 5.2.1. Legislative framework adequacy
lack of having the required human resources. The coastal surveillance Fig. 6 indicates the global mean as 3.25 and global standard devia
and search and rescue facilities, together with government’s focus on tion is 2.53. Norway and Singapore’s country means are above the
infrastructure development are however considered by some in a posi global mean. South Africa and Philippines both have negative z-scores
tive light in terms of the country’s infrastructure preparedness. Basic and their country means are lower than the global mean at 1.72 and 3.18
infrastructure was however raised as a challenge. respectively.
• Legislative framework.
• Human resource.
10
• Infrastructure. International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and
Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), 1978, as amended.
11
On the 1–10 scale, the range 1–3 was considered as reflecting a state The so-called “White List” refers to Parties of the International Convention
on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW),
of unpreparedness, 4–7 of moderate preparedness, and 8–10 a relatively
1978, as amended, confirmed by the Maritime Safety Committee to have
high state of preparedness. The standard deviation and perceived level
communicated information which demonstrates that full and complete effect is
of preparedness per country is also indicated in each of the tables. given to the relevant provisions of the Convention (per MSC.1/Circ. 1163 and
The z-scores for each country is shown in the standard normal 1164 latest revisions). Countries tend to prioritise being/remaining on this list
as it forms the basis of having certificates issued by the authority, recognised by
or under the authority of another Party pursuant of Regulation I/10 of the
9
The global mean is the mean of the four countries’ scores. STCW Convention which permits seafarers serving on foreign-flagged vessels.
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Y. de Klerk et al. Marine Policy 127 (2021) 104428
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
and in particular as they relate to the skills that have been identified as comparison to students and the education system in Norway. It seems
required. however that the government has realised the need to develop post-
In the case of South Africa, many schools do not have access to school education and training. It has been reported that some initia
technology or computers and students generally seem to not fare well in tives include addressing the shortfall with regards to STEM subjects, and
science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects - in the development of digital skills capacity [36].
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Y. de Klerk et al. Marine Policy 127 (2021) 104428
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Fig. 7. HR preparedness.
The difference between countries are evident in this study when possible solutions for improved services, efficiency and safety in the
considering the proactive approach of Norway, Singapore and, to some transport sector. Reform of existing education policies and curriculum
extent, Philippines, in exploring different options and proposals to find were also found to be an area requiring collaboration. Governments,
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Y. de Klerk et al. Marine Policy 127 (2021) 104428
academia and industry should collaborate to envision what a true 21st allowing for optimal agenda setting, policy formulation through to
century curriculum should entail [9]. The ‘triple helix’ model of policy implementation and evaluation [42] are obvious influencing
university-industry-government interactions is increasingly driving factors for Norway and Singapore’s relatively high levels of prepared
innovation [15]. The model distinguishes between the generation of ness to consider/operationalise autonomous shipping. Essential to these
wealth (industry), novelty production (academia) and public control policy frameworks in both jurisdictions is the involvement of all key
(government) [37]. Both Norway and Singapore appear to have taken stakeholders through vibrant maritime clusters, in particular govern
policy actions that evidence this concept. ment agencies, industry and academia (the triple helix concept). The
In Norway, a comprehensive maritime strategy for research, devel resulting policies enhance job creation opportunities and facilitate bet
opment and innovation was developed by the maritime stakeholders/ ter focussed investments in novel education and training programmes,
actors on behalf of the Norwegian government. The Maritim21 strategy technological advancements and start-ups in emerging maritime eco
is aimed at contributing to sustainable growth and value creation nomic sectors [43].
through linking authorities, the policy instrument, the business com Goal 17 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG
munity, organisations and research communities [38]. Similarly, 17) of “Partnerships for the Goals”, echoes the need for “partnerships
Singapore enjoys strong collaboration between government agencies among governments, the private sector and civil society” to implement a
and administrators, industry and academia. Its strategic geographic port sustainable development agenda and further notes that “inclusive
location, rule of law, skills, good infrastructure, and a government that is partnerships built upon principles and values, a shared vision, and
familiar with business needs are all contributing to its success in terms of shared goals that place people and the planet at the centre, are needed at
maritime-related research, development and innovation [39]. the global, regional, national and local level” [44 paragraph 1].
Not all countries have embraced or operationalised the triple helix Impacting the digital disruption discussed in this paper are wider
concept. In South Africa, despite the government-led Operation Phakisa, socio-economic, environmental, geopolitical and demographic factors
the country does not appear to have an explicit national maritime that interrelate in different ways, influence one another, and which
cluster. Neither does Philippines apparently. South Africa has a drive or resist change. Sustainability appears to be a major driving force
Comprehensive Maritime Transport Policy (CMTP) which was launched for some countries in terms of finding more efficient transport solutions,
in 2017 and refers to innovation, research and development and using as is the case in Norway and reflected in the country’s new draft
technology to enhance the industry [40]. The policy appears, however, transportation plan.
to be somewhat unclear in its implementation, as not all activities and In terms of labour, engagement from governments, industry and
actions are explicitly listed in the implementation timetable. The education/training institutions is recognised as necessary when
“Philippines: Maritime Industry Development Plan (MIDP) 2019–2028′′ reviewing training approaches, methods, content and assessment forms
was launched in December 2018 and includes eight priority pro to ensure that industry has the right skills available to respond to global
grammes. Most relevant to this discussion are the “Development of a developments, trends and challenges [45]. Many gaps identified by
Global Maritime Hub” and establishment of a “Maritime Innovation and countries in this study relate to education and human resource chal
Knowledge Centre”. The plan highlights the role of government in of lenges, whilst the required skills identified relate to technology, com
fering significant and impactful assistance to visionaries; investing in the puter programming, automation, cybersecurity and
necessary technology, research infrastructure, and R&D researchers; non-technical/affective abilities. These are found to be similar to those
implementing suitable amendments in education, the investment identified in IAMU’s Global Maritime Professional study [10] referred to
climate, and trade; and removing obstacles and blockages to innovative earlier in the paper.
proposals in governing structures [41]. The operationalisation of these
laudable plans is not as apparent as that of similar plans in Norway and 7. Conclusion
Singapore. Comprehensive collaboration amongst all stakeholders will
prove to be crucial in reaching the targets in the MIDP. This is also true The results indicated that no country is fully prepared at this stage to
for South Africa’s Operation Phakisa and its CMTP. operationalise autonomous shipping, although the governments of
It is noteworthy that the research findings indicate that Norway, Norway and Singapore are prioritising this and therefore appear to be
Singapore and Philippines are actively collaborating nationally, or quite advanced. Developed countries are generally in a stronger position
intending to collaborate with each other and/or with other jurisdictions. to leverage technological solutions to improve maritime transport and
A supportive government, together with good public policy frameworks combat climate change. Research, development and innovation are used
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Y. de Klerk et al. Marine Policy 127 (2021) 104428
as enablers to effect change and therefore governments create an envi Stakeholder engagement has been identified as a crucial element in
ronment conducive for collaboration amongst all stakeholders through advancing any country’s position. In the current volatile, uncertain,
clear policies and strategies. Both South Africa and Philippines seem to complex and ambiguous (VUCA) environment this is even more the case.
be occupied with giving full and complete effect to the extant STCW Close(r) collaboration between government, industry and academia is
Convention, and as such consideration for the 4th Industrial Revolution required to weather the approaching autonomous storm.
and autonomous shipping are not prioritised, nor is there evidence of To adapt a definition given by Dye [46], public policy is what gov
any major technological initiatives in terms of sustainability for the ernments do (or choose not to do), the reasons for their (in)action and
maritime transport sector. Should South Africa and Philippines wish to the consequences of their choices. While the contents of any policy and
prepare for autonomous shipping operations by 2035, their respective their place on the national agenda may be debated, the key issue for all
maritime transport policies require updating to reflect this. Likewise, Countries (including those studied here) is the existence of relevant
(maritime) education policies and those related to science and tech policies and the nature of the processes that lead to such policies. A
nology need to reflect clear strategies of how the country wishes to deontological argument can be made that it is the responsibility of States
address and properly consider national actions in respect of autonomous to have relevant policies in place and perhaps even more importantly for
shipping and if/how it should be prioritised and/or operationalised. the establishing of clear, transparent and effective processes that bring
There seemed to be uncertainty among respondents as to the exact stakeholders together to discuss policies and their place on the national
nature of human resource requirements needed fifteen years from now. agenda. The clearer these processes are to all stakeholders, the better for
Recurring education and training challenges raised include a lack of the the State. Countries that fail in this respect are often consigned to
desired educational framework and the need to integrate more advanced playing “catch-up” in respect of impactful global trends.
technology into the MET curriculum, without losing out on the skills
required for the contemporary shipping industry. The seafaring skills of 7.2. Recommendations
today are expected to be in shortage in 2035. A vital element in guar
anteeing that the required human resources are available relates to Governments should engage more rigorously in the preparation to
knowledge sharing through collaboration. Government, industry and operationalise autonomous shipping. There is the need to emphasise
academia need to ensure the education system produces the required that “preparation” in this context includes both the situations where
skills needed by industry. Optimal policies and legislation, human re governments actively choose to take certain actions in terms of oper
sources and infrastructure as well as acceptance from the broader soci ationalising autonomous shipping, as well as those where governments
ety are all required in this context. arrive at the conclusion of choosing not to enhance (neither want/need)
In conclusion, the overall perceived national preparedness of the automation. In both cases, a government will need a rigorous mecha
countries to operationalise autonomous shipping by 2035 is given in nism to “respond to” the ongoing discourse and have a policy framework
Table 4. to support processes of deliberation and action. Recommended consid
erations include:
7.1. Contribution to the literature and policy practice i. Closer collaboration between government, industry and
academia to ensure the required skills are identified and readily
The research aimed to demonstrate the utilisation of scenario plan available;
ning as a mechanism in policy gap analysis to assist governments stra ii. Establishment of a visible and unequivocal national maritime
tegically prepare for an uncertain future by providing a conceptual cluster in South Africa and Philippines to align national policies
framework that considers the legislative, human resource, and infra and education programmes with global and local industry needs
structure readiness of a country. Scenario planning may be used as an and towards achieving the UN SDGs;
instrument by governments to interrogate stakeholders’ mindset iii. Mechanisms to generate collaborative dialogue between stake
regarding adapting to different possible autonomous futures. holders to generate different future scenarios through participa
The economic growth of a country is directly impacted by political tory processes and plan autonomous shipping contingencies
factors such as political will, government stability and legal factors accordingly;
which relate to the legislative framework and include policies and reg iv. Development and communications of clear steps for the imple
ulations. In this context policies can include maritime-, education-, and mentation of policies, as those found in the CMTP and MIDP.
technology policies. National Maritime Education and Training (MET)
systems need to be able to anticipate future skills to enhance national 7.3. Limitations and future research
adaptation to changing requirements rather than an exclusive focus on
extant international law, in this case the STCW, 1978 as amended. The The scenarios in this study were generated following a systematic
role of MET as an enabler for national economic development needs to literature review which was generalised. Stakeholder participatory
be realised through policies that consider the interest of all stakeholders processes may have yielded more probable scenarios for each of the
in an ethical and sustainable manner. chosen countries and could therefore have resulted in an even more
plausible analysis of the preparedness of each country to operationalise
Table 4 autonomous shipping. The process of determining the most plausible
Overall level of preparedness of each country. scenario can be argued to be limited in its exhaustiveness. However, this
Norway Singapore South Africa Philippines speaks to issues related to certainty in all scenario planning research.
Regulatory 7.5 7.25 1.72 3.18 History and research teach us that, so far, accurate prediction in scenario
preparedness generation and consequential planning has shown itself to be a very
HR preparedness 8.75 7.5 3.28 6 difficult task that in hindsight is seldom completely valid. The use of
Infrastructure 9 7.5 3 4.09 emerging techniques like simulation and modelling for scenario plan
preparedness
Overall 8.42 7.41 2.67 4.42
ning may be helpful in this respect. Such simulations/modelling should
preparedness Very high High Low Moderate consider to the largest extent possible, the pertinent influences on and
(quantitative likelihood to likelihood likelihood likelihood to determinants for the preparation and operationalisation of autonomous
and be prepared to be to be be prepared shipping and indeed, any other disruptive driver. Another limitation to
qualitative) prepared prepared
be considered relates to the unequal sample size and distribution of
Note. Based on a scale of 1–10 – 1 being lowest and 10 highest. respondent expertise in the respective countries that formed part of this
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Y. de Klerk et al. Marine Policy 127 (2021) 104428
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[20] J.W. Creswell, J.D. Creswell, Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and
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