UN Marks International Day for Women in Maritime, Highlights Role of Women in Sector

May 18, 2026

New York: The United Nations on Monday highlighted the growing role of women in the global maritime and shipping sector, calling for greater inclusion and visibility on the occasion of the International Day for Women in Maritime.

In a message shared on X, the UN said, “Women are an integral part of the maritime workforce. Monday’s International Day for Women in Maritime is an opportunity to promote and celebrate their contributions to the maritime community.”

Women are an integral part of the maritime workforce.

Monday’s International Day for Women in Maritime is an opportunity to promote and celebrate their contributions to the maritime community.

More from @IMOHQ: https://t.co/uQpT6nQDgV pic.twitter.com/ZHQCZch52I

— United Nations (@UN) May 18, 2026

IMO Hosts Global Event on Gender Equality in Maritime Sector

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) also announced a special event titled “From Policy to Practice: Advancing Gender Equality for Maritime Excellence,” to be held at its headquarters in London.

The event will bring together policymakers and industry stakeholders to discuss gender balance, inclusion, and opportunities for women in maritime professions. It will also be livestreamed globally.

Gender Equality Award to Be Presented

As part of the program, the IMO will host the Gender Equality Award Ceremony, where Professor Momoko Kitada, nominated by Japan, will receive the IMO Gender Equality Award 2026.

The organization also encouraged women in maritime to share their stories on social media using the hashtag #WomenInMaritimeDay, urging greater visibility of contributions across all levels of the industry.

Focus on Inclusion and Sustainable Development

According to the IMO, the International Day for Women in Maritime is observed annually on May 18 to promote recruitment, retention, and long-term participation of women in the sector.

The initiative also supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5, aimed at achieving gender equality and addressing the existing imbalance in the maritime workforce.