The inaugural International Maritime Organisation(IMO) International Day for Women in Maritime (IDFWIM), which was observed on May 18, highlighted the lack of women’s representation in the field.
According to news reports, Captain TS Bhatia, President of the Merchant Navy Officers’ Association, said that there was a minuscule- 2 to 3% of women— in the shipping industry.
He was quoted as saying, “We want more and more girls to join the Merchant Navy. International Day for Women in Maritime is a moment to pause and reflect upon by all stakeholders to ensure maximum participation of women seafarers in maritime.”
He stressed the need for a barrier-free environment for women to participate and thrive.
The Day, which was declared late last year, aims to celebrate and promote the recruitment, retention, and sustained employment of women in the maritime sector.
By raising the profile of women in maritime, The International Maritime Organization is strengthening its commitment to the fifth Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG5) of gender equality while addressing gender imbalances in maritime.
