This year, the IMO International Day for Women in Maritime, celebrated on May 18, emphasizes the importance of achieving gender equality across all levels of the maritime industry, both at sea and on land. The theme, “From Policy to Practice: Advancing Gender Equality for Maritime Excellence,” aims to transform international commitments into actionable steps that positively impact the lives of women in the sector, including seafarers and shore-based professionals.
IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez highlighted the ongoing challenges in promoting gender diversity within the maritime field. He urged stakeholders to critically assess their progress and identify practical measures to foster meaningful and lasting change. On May 18, a special event at IMO Headquarters in London will address the significance of gender mainstreaming and the existing barriers within the maritime sector. This event will be livestreamed on the IMO’s YouTube channel to further amplify women’s voices.
A key feature of the event will be the launch of the Handbook on Gender Mainstreaming by Professor Momoko Kitada from the World Maritime University. This resource aims to assist maritime administrations, shipping companies, and training institutions in integrating gender considerations into their operations. Professor Kitada will also receive the 2026 IMO Gender Equality Award for her contributions to the field.
The International Day for Women in Maritime, recognized annually since the adoption of resolution A.1170(32) by the IMO Assembly, celebrates women’s roles in the industry and advocates for their recruitment and retention. Despite advancements, women remain significantly underrepresented, comprising less than 20% of the onshore maritime workforce and under 2% of global seafarers. The IMO’s Women in Maritime program, active since 1988, continues to support women’s participation through training, visibility, and recognition initiatives.
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