This Sunday (18th May), we join the global maritime community in celebrating International Day for Women in Maritime, a day established by the International Maritime Organization in 2019 to promote the recruitment, retention, and empowerment of women across all areas of the maritime industry.
This year’s theme, “An Ocean of Opportunities for Women,” highlights the growing momentum toward gender diversity and inclusion in a sector historically dominated by men. It’s a call to action for industry leaders, companies, and institutions to create pathways for women to thrive – from the bridge to the boardroom.
A key advocate in this space is the Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association, a global networking organization dedicated to supporting women at all levels of the maritime, trading, and logistics sectors. In 2021, WISTA, in collaboration with the IMO, conducted a groundbreaking survey that revealed women made up less than 2% of the crewing workforce (seafarers), with most female seafarers employed by the cruise industry. Women made up 10% of search and rescue teams, and around 20% of the workforce across the wider maritime authorities, customs, and border control organisations.
WISTA’s 2024 survey was released (earlier today). Unfortunately, there has been no increase in the proportion of female seafarers since the 2021 report and there hasn’t been an increase in the proportion of women in the wider workforce either. However, there has been a significant increase in the number of female Heads of Maritime Administrations (from 6 to 14), meaning women now occupy 15% of these roles. WISTA’s survey demonstrates that, whilst some progress has been made, significant challenges remain in achieving gender parity at sea and ashore.
At Catalyst R&D, we are proud to work alongside our clients in the maritime sector who are committed to building a more inclusive future. Let’s continue to champion diversity, foster opportunity, and navigate toward a more equitable industry for all. 🤝🌍⚓