THE INTERNATIONAL Maritime Organization and Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association have launched their second Women in Maritime Survey.
WISTA and the IMO run the survey once every three years to collect baseline data about the number of women in maritime and ocean fields and the positions they work in.
This is the second survey so far. The 2021 survey report was launched on the inaugural International Day for Women in Maritime that year.
The aim of the survey is to analyse trends and support the creation of programs and policies to boost women’s participation in maritime.
The previous study highlighted a male-dominated sector, with women making up less than a third of the overall maritime workforce, and less than 2% of seafarers.
WISTA International president Elpi Petraki said the survey is more than just a data collection effort.
“It is a strategic move towards the evolution of our industry,” she said.
“The insights gathered can be used to develop forward thinking policies that will elevate inclusion and diversity.”
The survey includes two streams – one for IMO member governments and one for industry, including companies, non-governmental and intergovernmental organisations, and private maritime training institutes or academies.
IMO secretary-general Arsenio Dominguez called for governments and industry to get involved.
“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,” he said.
The survey opened on 2 September and runs until 31 December 2024, with the final report due to be published in May 2025.
More information about the survey is available on the IMO website.
