The International Maritime Organization (IMO) celebrates this May 18 International Women's Day in the Maritime Sector with a special event at its headquarters in London focused on integrating the gender perspective at all levels of the maritime industry, both on land and aboard ships. Under the slogan "From policy to practice: promoting gender equality for maritime excellence," the day focuses on the necessary actions to turn international commitments into tangible measures that transform the reality of women in the sector, from maritime professionals to those who work in port facilities and offices on land.
The IMO's Secretary-General, Arsenio Dominguez, has spoken on the occasion of this celebration to point out that, despite the commitments made over the years in favor of gender diversity in the maritime sector, significant obstacles persist. Dominguez has raised the need for a deep reflection on existing shortcomings and the practical measures that can be implemented to overcome rhetoric and achieve meaningful and lasting change.
The event, which will be inaugurated by the Secretary-General himself, brings together experts and professionals from the maritime field who will share their perspectives on best practices for translating commitments into effective actions. The day will be held in person with full interpretation services and will be broadcast live via the IMO's YouTube channel, with the aim of giving the widest possible dissemination to the voices of women in the sector.
One of the central moments of the day is the presentation of the Handbook on Gender Mainstreaming, prepared by Professor Momoko Kitada of the World Maritime University. This document has been conceived as a practical support tool for maritime administrations, shipping companies, ports, and maritime training institutions, in order to integrate the gender perspective into their policies, procedures, and daily operations. Professor Kitada will also receive the IMO Gender Equality Award 2026 during the event, a recognition of her career and contribution in this area.
