Final Act

The Final Act is the formal document of an IMO diplomatic conference that records the adoption of a new instrument and lists the resolutions, recommendations, and reservations adopted alongside it. It names the participating states, certifies the authentic text, and notes the date the instrument opens for signature. The Final Act is not itself binding and is distinct from the convention text it accompanies; signing the Final Act authenticates the record but does not consent to be bound by the treaty. The 1974 SOLAS Conference and the 1978 STCW Conference each closed with a Final Act.