How can one of the world’s most essential industries thrive without the full participation of half its potential talent pool?
That’s the question being asked—loud and clear—this International Day for Women in Maritime, to be observed globally on the 18th of May.
This year’s theme, “An Ocean of Opportunities for Women,” carries a message of empowerment and transformation.
With more than 80% of global trade being moved by sea, the maritime industry is undeniably the lifeblood of international commerce.
Yet, it remains overwhelmingly male-dominated, especially at sea, with the participation of women in shipping still minimal and marginalised.
Spotlight on the Gender Gap – and the Road Ahead
To highlight this disparity and chart a course toward a more inclusive future, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) is hosting a dynamic symposium on the 16th of May at its London headquarters.. The event is also being livestreamed for global participation via IMO’s YouTube channel.
At the helm of this year’s campaign is IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez, who emphasises the vital role women can and must play across all maritime domains—from the ship’s deck to the boardroom, from ocean science to port operations.
“Our theme this year recognizes the vast potential for inclusion, innovation and equality across the many different areas of work in the maritime world, from deck to boardroom, from ocean scientist to maritime administrator.”
“Education, mentorship, policy, and culture will bring down the barriers that have hindered progress” added Dominguez.
What’s on the Agenda: Voices Driving Change
The symposium will bring together thought leaders and changemakers from across the ocean economy to share their experiences, insights, and ideas. Highlights from the programme include:
- A live podcast hosted by Indian merchant navy officer and filmmaker Karanvir Singh Nayyar, featuring perspectives from:
- Captain Josephine Clark – President, Australasian Marine Pilots Institute (Australia)
- Ms. Mariam Al Shaikh – Deck Cadet, Bahri (Saudi Arabia)
- Key findings from the much-anticipated 2024 IMO-WISTA Women in Maritime Survey, to be presented by:
- Ms. Louise Proctor, IMO Deputy Director
- Ms. Elpi Petraki, President of WISTA International
- Panel sessions tackling critical themes:
- Ocean Conservation and the Power of Youth – with experts from the Bahamas, Kenya, and the UK
- Navigating Challenges and Seizing Opportunities – featuring educators, executive,s and environmental leaders
And in a proud moment for gender advocacy in maritime, the prestigious IMO Gender Equality Award 2025 will be presented to Ms. Karin Orsel, a maritime entrepreneur from the Netherlands, recognised for her impactful contributions to gender equity in the industry.
Why This Matters
Beyond the speeches and ceremonies, this event is about action. The IMO-WISTA survey data provides an important baseline to guide policies and interventions aimed at boosting female participation across all levels of the maritime supply chain.
The 2022 survey already revealed stark disparities, and this latest edition is expected to offer even deeper insights and recommendations for meaningful change.
The maritime sector has long relied on tradition and hierarchy, but the tides are shifting. Inclusion is no longer a nice-to-have; it’s a business and sustainability imperative.
Join the Global Conversation and encourage women in shipping
The IMO is encouraging people everywhere to engage online and amplify stories of women who are making a difference in the sector. Whether you’re a seafarer, a port operator, a policymaker or a logistics professional—this is a moment to stand in solidarity and move the dialogue forward.
📱 Use the hashtag #WomenInMaritimeDay
📣 Tag @IMOHQ on X (Twitter), LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook
Looking Ahead
The International Day for Women in Maritime is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a reminder of the untapped talent and innovation waiting to be harnessed in this crucial sector. It aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5 (Gender Equality) and supports broader efforts to build a resilient, inclusive, and future-ready maritime industry.
Let’s make sure the ocean of opportunities is one where everyone has a fair chance to navigate and lead.
🛳️ Learn more about Women in Maritime
📩 For press enquiries: media@imo.org
