The European Sea Ports Organisation was founded in 1993. It represents the port authorities, port associations and port administrations of the seaports of the Member States of the European Union and Norway. ESPO has also observer members in several neighbouring countries to the EU. The European Union simply cannot function without its seaports. 90 % of Europe’s cargo trade in goods passes through the more than 1200 seaports existing in the 23 maritime Member States of the EU and more than 400 million passengers pass through Europe’s ports every year using ferry and cruise services. Without seaports, the European Union would not exist as an economic world power. Without seaports, there would be no internal market. ESPO ensures that seaports have a clear voice in the European Union. The organisation promotes the common interests of its members throughout Europe and is also engaged in dialogue with European stakeholders in the Port and Maritime sector. ESPO works through a permanent secretariat in Brussels, a General Assembly, an Executive Committee, and 8 specialised committees.