IMO and WISTA Launch Study to Enhance Gender Diversity in Maritime

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  • The IMO and WISTA International launched the Women in Maritime Survey to collect data on women’s participation in maritime.
  • The survey aims to support policies that boost women’s roles in the industry and runs from September to December 2024.
  • Results will guide efforts to improve diversity and gender balance in the maritime sector.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association (WISTA International) have launched the second Women in Maritime Survey to collect vital data on women’s participation in the maritime and ocean sectors, reports IMO.

Global Call for Participation

IMO Secretary-General, Mr. Arsenio Dominguez, urged governments, companies, organizations, and academic institutions worldwide to participate.

He stated, “Join me in championing diversity and fostering a barrier-free workplace for all by completing the survey, which will allow for a more targeted use of resources and ensure that we are well-placed to navigate the challenges that the future brings.”

Purpose of the Survey

The survey, conducted every three years, aims to provide a global overview of women’s roles in maritime. It helps identify trends and supports developing programs and policies to increase women’s participation in the sector.

The 2021 survey revealed that women constituted less than a third of the maritime workforce, with fewer than 2% of seafarers being women.

WISTA International President, Ms. Elpi Petraki, emphasized the importance of the survey, stating, “This survey is more than just a data collection effort. It is a strategic move towards the evolution of our industry. The insights gathered can be used to develop forward-thinking policies that will elevate inclusion and diversity.”

Survey Streams and Timeline

The survey is divided into two streams: one for IMO member governments and another for industry participants, including companies, NGOs, IGOs, and maritime training institutes. The survey runs from 2 September to 31 December 2024, with the final report expected in May 2025.

This survey is part of the IMO’s long-standing efforts to enhance women’s empowerment and promote gender balance in the maritime industry.

Women in Maritime Survey

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Source: IMO