Increasing Women’s Representation and Role Diversity in Maritime Shipping

Svetlana Timm-Vengerov embarked on her first sea journey at the age of 17, traveling from Germany to South Korea to board a ship in Busan. This experience was part of a holiday cruise program created by the German Shipowners’ Association (VDR). Despite the male-dominated nature of the maritime industry, there is a growing effort to encourage more women to join. Timm-Vengerov has since become a second technical officer at Hapag Lloyd, a role that involves managing technical processes and overseeing mechanical engineering staff.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) reports that women make up only 1.2% of the global seafarer workforce, with even fewer women in leadership positions. However, efforts are being made to increase this representation. Women in maritime shipping face challenges such as long periods away from home, but there are opportunities for family-friendly roles, such as tugboat captains. Additionally, the industry is working to address issues of harassment and discrimination against women.

Despite the historically male-dominated nature of the maritime industry, there is a growing effort to encourage more women to join. Efforts are being made to increase the representation of women in the industry, as well as address issues such as harassment and discrimination. While challenges remain, there are opportunities for family-friendly roles and a more balanced work-life dynamic for women in maritime shipping.

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