International Hydrographic Organization (IHO)
An intergovernmental organisation dedicated to ensuring the uniformity and standardisation of hydrographic and nautical charting practices globally to support safe navigation and the sustainable use of marine environments.
The International Hydrographic Organization (IHO), established in 1921 and headquartered in Monaco, is the principal authority for coordinating global hydrographic efforts. Its primary aim is to ensure that the world’s seas, oceans, and navigable waters are properly surveyed and charted. The IHO promotes uniformity in nautical charts, publications, and hydrographic data to enhance maritime safety and efficiency. It also plays a crucial role in supporting marine environmental protection, disaster risk reduction, and the sustainable management of marine resources.
The organisation provides technical guidance, sets international standards, and facilitates the exchange of hydrographic data between its member states. It also works closely with other international bodies, such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the United Nations, to address broader maritime issues. The IHO’s standards, such as the S-100 Universal Hydrographic Data Model, are widely adopted by hydrographic offices and are critical for developing modern electronic navigational charts (ENCs) and other digital marine data products.
By fostering international collaboration, the IHO ensures that mariners, shipping companies, and other marine stakeholders have access to accurate and reliable hydrographic information. This contributes to the safety of life at sea, the efficient operation of global maritime trade, and the protection of marine ecosystems.
