Flag state spat exposes growing government oversight gaps

An uninsured ship casualty has prompted Türkiye to call for an international white list for insurers, but the verification of flag state responsibilities runs to the heart of a much bigger problem with substandard shipping, writes Richard Meade of Lloyd's List

An overhaul of international rules is required to address the risk of uninsured and unsafe ships, according to Türkiye's government, which has pointed the finger of blame directly at failing flag administrations.