The International Maritime Organization marked International Day for Women in Maritime on May 18 under the theme “From Policy to Practice: Advancing Gender Equality for Maritime Excellence.” The initiative highlights efforts to improve recruitment, retention, and career advancement for women across the maritime sector, where women currently represent less than 20% of the shore-based workforce and under 2% of global seafarers. The event included the launch of a new gender mainstreaming handbook by Momoko Kitada and recognition of her work with the 2026 IMO Gender Equality Award. IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez said meaningful and lasting action is still needed to address persistent gender disparities across the industry.
