Which organization's regulations govern the assignment of call signs for maritime stations?

The assignment of call signs for maritime stations is governed by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). The ITU is a specialized agency of the United Nations that coordinates the global use of the radio-frequency spectrum and establishes regulations for the use of radiocommunications. This includes the allocation of call signs, which are essential for identifying maritime mobile stations and facilitating communication safety at sea.

The ITU's Radio Regulations outline the guidelines and procedures for countries to follow when assigning call signs to ensure international consistency and avoid interference between stations. This is crucial for maintaining order and safety in maritime communications, where clear and unmistakable identification of vessels is vital for operations and emergencies alike.

Other organizations, while involved in various aspects of maritime operations, do not have the authority to govern call sign assignments. The IMO (International Maritime Organization) focuses more on maritime safety, security, and environmental performance, whereas the COAST and FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) pertain primarily to domestic aspects of coast guard and aviation, respectively, rather than global communication regulations.