An open access second Women in Maritime Survey has been launched to collect crucial baseline data on women’s participation in maritime and ocean-related activities.
Carried out every three years by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and WISTA International, the survey takes a global snapshot of how many women work in these sectors and in what roles.
The objective is to offer trends analysis and support the formulation of programs and policy in line with boosting female participation in the maritime workforce. The previous report, released in 2021, indicated the industry was heavily dominated by men as less than one-third of total maritime workers are women. Less than 2 % represent seafarers.
“This survey is more than just a data collection effort. It is a strategic move towards the evolution of our industry. The insights can be used to develop forward-thinking policies that will only elevate inclusion and diversity further,” commented WISTA International President, Elpi Petraki.
The survey comprises two streams: one for IMO member governments and another for industry, including companies, non-governmental and intergovernmental organizations, and private maritime training institutes or academies.
The survey is in field from 2 September to 31 December 2024 with the final report to be released in May 2025. The Women in Maritime survey is part of IMO’s long-standing advocacy and technical cooperation efforts to enhance women empowerment and advance gender balance in the maritime sector. “Let’s all get together and ensure diversity is championed, and a barrier-free work environment prevails for all by completing the survey, which will allow for more targeted use of resources, ensuring that we are well placed to navigate the challenges that the future brings,” said IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez.