In a major step towards promoting sustainability and inclusivity within the global shipping industry, BIMCO and WISTA (Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at Maritime Cyprus.
The agreement, signed by David Loosley and Elpi Petraki, focuses on ensuring a sustainable maritime workforce “from cradle to cradle.” As the shipping industry embraces new fuels, automation, and digitalisation, this collaboration seeks to maintain safe, fair, and attractive working conditions for all maritime professionals with special emphasis on enabling women to thrive in the evolving industry.
Collaborative Focus on Workforce Sustainability
The MoU highlights the urgent need to create a resilient and future-ready workforce in shipping. BIMCO and WISTA aim to jointly address workforce challenges through research, training, and information sharing. Their focus includes developing initiatives that promote equality, improve working conditions, and attract new talent to maritime professions.
By pooling their expertise, the organisations will engage in research and development projects to explore innovative solutions, share data and publications beneficial to members, and enhance skills through joint educational programmes. This cooperation ensures that both present and future maritime professionals are well-equipped to handle the industry’s technological and environmental shifts.
Empowering Women and Building an Inclusive Industry
A key priority of the MoU is to create an inclusive and diverse maritime environment where women can actively participate and progress in leadership roles. Through targeted training programmes and mentorship initiatives, the partnership aims to bridge gender gaps and encourage more women to join and stay in the maritime workforce.
This collaboration also acknowledges that the transition to green fuels and digital technologies requires not just technical adaptation but also social progress where inclusivity becomes central to sustainable growth.
The partnership between BIMCO and WISTA marks a transformative milestone in the maritime industry’s journey toward a sustainable and inclusive future. By combining resources, knowledge, and influence, both organisations are set to strengthen the shipping workforce, ensuring it remains safe, equitable, and forward-looking. Their joint efforts will not only empower women but also inspire the next generation of maritime professionals to see the industry as a vibrant and rewarding career path.
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Source: BIMCO
