IMO-WISTA Women in Maritime Survey 2024

The results of the latest IMO-WISTA Women in Maritime Survey are out—and they’re sobering

When we launched the first edition in 2021, we set out to establish a benchmark for change. But the 2024 data tells a different story: no significant progress—and in some areas, representation has declined. While the absolute number of women in the industry has grown, the ratio of women to men is decreasing.

This is why data matters. It’s not just about visibility—it’s about truth. Without it, we risk mistaking visibility for progress, and stories for systemic change.

At a time when our industry is undergoing rapid transformation—through digitalisation, decarbonisation, and disruption—we cannot afford to stall on inclusion. Diversity is not optional. It is essential to maritime’s resilience, innovation, and future relevance.

A powerful voice driving this call is the ongoing collaboration between International Maritime Organization and WISTA International whose partnership continues to spotlight the realities of gender diversity in our sector.

IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez has shown unwavering commitment to inclusion—advocating for more representative leadership, equitable policies, and meaningful cultural change throughout the maritime ecosystem.

And Elpi Petraki, President of WISTA, is representing the strength, professionalism, and leadership of women in maritime with clarity and conviction. A true ambassador for the industry and the values it must embrace.

But these voices—no matter how impactful—cannot stand alone. They need the full force of the industry behind them: from boardrooms to bridges, shipyards to startups.

This is the moment to show up—not with words, but with action.

Published  by

hashtag#WomenInMaritimeDay hashtag#WomenInMaritime hashtag#DiversityInShipping hashtag#InclusiveLeadership hashtag#WISTA hashtag#IMO hashtag#Maritime hashtag#Shipping