The International Symposium on the Legal Regime of Ports will be held in Mersin on 3–4 September 2026, jointly organized by the Ankara University National Center for the Sea and Maritime Law (DEHUKAM) and the Mersin Chamber of Shipping, with the support of Mersin International Port.

The Symposium aims to examine the legal status of ports under national and international law, address current legal challenges and developments concerning ports from a multidisciplinary perspective, and contribute to strengthening academic and institutional capacity in the field of port law in Türkiye.

The Symposium will feature sessions addressing a range of topics, including the legal status of ports; jurisdiction and responsibilities of the port State; the role of ports in maritime safety and environmental protection; legal issues relating to port governance and operations; sustainability and the green transition in ports; digitalization and emerging technologies; port security; relevant international regulations; and current developments.

Over the course of the two-day Symposium, leading academics, representatives of international organizations and public institutions, practitioners, and experts from the maritime sector will come together to exchange knowledge and expertise.

Through this Symposium, DEHUKAM seeks to bring together academic work conducted at both national and international levels on the legal status and regime of ports, strengthen the exchange of knowledge and experience between the public and private sectors, and facilitate a comprehensive assessment of current legal issues concerning ports.

We cordially invite all academics, representatives of public institutions, maritime sector stakeholders, legal practitioners, and all those interested in the subject to this important event.

Symposium program can be reached from