Sascha Meijer, assistant general secretary of Nautilus International, emphasized that the struggle for women’s rights is a pressing issue within the maritime industry, not merely an abstract agenda. During a networking event for women members on March 9, aligned with the UN’s 2026 theme of Rights, Justice, and Action, she addressed the challenges women face in maritime roles. Despite their passion for their professions as seafarers or inland waterways experts, many encounter barriers such as slower career advancement, prejudice, and even harassment.
Meijer pointed out that outdated work patterns hinder both men and women from entering or staying in the maritime sector, contributing to critically low enrollment in maritime colleges. She highlighted recent gains from Nautilus negotiations, including extended parental leave and improved care leave policies, which support women in balancing their careers and family responsibilities. However, issues persist, as illustrated by reports from female seafarers in the UK’s Royal Fleet Auxiliary, who face restrictive maternity policies that can lead some to end pregnancies to safeguard their careers.
Citing data from UN Women, Meijer noted that women globally possess only 64% of men’s legal rights, with nearly 70% of countries upholding discriminatory laws. She warned that current political decisions, such as cuts to development aid and social services, threaten to reverse progress in gender equality. Meijer concluded by urging the industry to move beyond mere celebration of International Women’s Day, advocating for collective action to hold the sector accountable and foster genuine improvement.
