The theme of International Women’s Day (IWD) in 2025 is “Accelerate Action.” This theme emphasizes the urgency of taking swift and decisive steps toward achieving gender equality. It underscores the need to dismantle systemic barriers and biases that hinder women’s progress, both personally and professionally.
The current landscape
Gender equality is under threat, and the world is falling behind in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 5 (Gender Equality) by 2030. According to data from the World Economic Forum, at the current rate of progress, full gender parity will not be achieved until 2158—roughly five generations from now.
Recent data from Diversity Study Group (DSG), covering both shore-based employees and seafarers, highlights a worrying decline in women’s representation in leadership roles. Fewer women are being promoted to senior positions, signaling an urgent need for intervention.
Currently, women comprise only 2% of the global seafarer workforce and just 20% of the shore-based maritime workforce. For an industry as vast as international shipping, these figures remain alarmingly low. Traditionally a male-dominated and conservative sector, the maritime industry is slowly evolving, but much work remains to be done.
A special celebration with a strong message
Celebrated annually on March 8th, International Women’s Day (IWD) has been observed for over a century. Many of the challenges that hinder women’s progress today have persisted throughout its history. Since 1911, IWD has served as a rallying point for those advocating gender equality.
In addition to IWD, the maritime sector has established its own dedicated day to honor women in the industry and reinforce the call for greater female representation. May 18th is recognized as the official Maritime Women’s Day, highlighting the need for gender inclusivity in the sector.
Key challenges and opportunities
Women continue to face gender-based obstacles while adapting to the male-dominated maritime sector. Cultural perceptions and ingrained stereotypes discourage potential female seafarers and create challenges for those already in the profession. Some key concerns include:
- Lack of onboard accommodation for female crew members
- Workplace discrimination and stereotypes
- Sexual harassment and safety concerns
To foster a fair, inclusive, and sustainable maritime industry, stakeholders must prioritize:
- Technical training and mentorship for women seafarers
- Active participation in decision-making processes
- Representation in policy discussions and leadership roles
Diversity should not be seen as just a compliance measure—it is a catalyst for innovation and success. Moreover, empowering women in leadership roles will accelerate the industry’s transition towards sustainability and innovation.
Progress in the industry
Several initiatives are already making strides in promoting diversity and structural change within the maritime sector. Recent developments include:
- The Sailors’ Society launched a dedicated helpline for female seafarers, offering 24/7 emotional support, crisis assistance, and peer-to-peer connections.
- On March 4, the Norwegian Shipowners’ Association signed a declaration of cooperation to advance gender equality in the maritime sector. The association also endorsed WISTA’s “40 by 30” initiative, which aims for 40% female representation in management roles by 2030.
- Karin Orsel, Co-founder and CEO of MF Shipping Group, was selected to receive the 2025 IMO Gender Equality Award.
- Elpi Petraki was re-elected as President of WISTA International at the AGM and Conference in Cyprus, marking the organization’s 50th anniversary.
- In November 2024, All Aboard Alliance and TURTLE released a new report shedding light on the critical barriers women face in maritime careers.
How to accelerate action
As ISWAN emphasizes in a recent guide: “Listen to your female colleagues with an open mind. Hear them out, believe them, and empathize—even if their experiences differ from your own.”
To enact meaningful change, maritime organizations must implement policies to:
- Eliminate workplace violence and harassment
- Ensure equal pay and non-discriminatory employment practices
- Promote work–life balance and flexible work arrangements
- Support career development and mentorship programs
- Increase female representation in leadership roles
- Prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives
A call to action
While the maritime industry has made progress in encouraging female participation, much work remains to be done. Gender equality is not a one-day issue; it is a long-term commitment that benefits everyone.
To drive real change, the sector must:
- Educate and empower existing and aspiring female professionals
- Equip maritime workplaces with the necessary policies and infrastructure to support diversity
- Encourage male allies to advocate for gender equity—especially in spaces where women’s voices are absent
By taking deliberate, sustained action, the maritime industry can foster a truly inclusive and equitable environment, ensuring that all professionals, regardless of gender, have equal opportunities to thrive.
