Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

IMO is committed to creating a workplace and maritime industry where Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are at the forefront.

Through various programs and initiatives, IMO aims to build an environment that values diverse perspectives and experiences, ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, has equal opportunities.

Gender Equality and Empowerment of Women (GEEW)

IMO supports gender equality in the maritime sector with several initiatives for women to create a more inclusive industry:

IMO's gender programme "Women in Maritime": IMO's gender programme "Women in Maritime" supports women’s full and equal participation in maritime roles worldwide. Read all about IMO's initiatives to support women in the maritime industry here.
IMO-WISTA Women in Maritime Survey 2024: IMO and WISTA International are conducting the second global Women in Maritime Survey 2024. This Survey is run every three years to obtain baseline data on the number of women in maritime and oceans fields and the positions they occupy. Read more about it here.

Key Dates for Gender Equality:

International Women’s Day

International Women's Day (IWD), observed annually on 8 March, is a global occasion to celebrate the achievements of women, raise awareness of gender equality issues, and advocate for continued progress towards an inclusive society. As part of its commitment to gender equality, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) actively supports IWD by promoting women’s empowerment within the maritime industry and beyond. See more here.

International Day for Women in Maritime

Observed globally on 18 May each year, the IMO International Day for Women in Maritime seeks to raise the profile of women in maritime, while promoting their recruitment, retention and sustained employment in the sector.

The day strengthens IMO's commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5 (gender equality) and support work to address the current gender imbalance in maritime. Read more about it here.

International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT)

Observed globally on 17 May, UN system marks this day as the opportunity to progress and draw attention to violence and discrimination experienced by people based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Anti-Racism

IMO aligns with the United Nations in the global fight against racism, reaffirming its commitment to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion across the maritime sector. As a specialised agency of the UN, IMO integrates anti-racism principles into its policies, practices, and organisational culture, ensuring that its work upholds the fundamental values of human rights and non-discrimination.

IMO organizes various initiatives and events to promote awareness, dialogue, and action against racism in the maritime sector:

Film Screening “Je Suis Noires”: In marking the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination 2024, IMO held a film screening “Je Suis Noires” and discussion with the co-director, Rachel M’Bon. The thought provoking discussion and exchange of views presented an awareness and knowledge on racial issue.
Diversity Photo Competition: IMO presented the "Diversity at Sea" photo competition, in honour of Black History Month in October 2024. The photos celebrate multiculturalism in the maritime sector, whether it's diverse crews, vibrant port cities, or unique perspectives from the maritime community. Please find the photo gallery here.

IMO and UN against racism

Disability Inclusion

IMO support the global effort for disability inclusion. On the global level, UN Secretariat launched the UN's Disability Inclusion Strategy, committing to supporting inclusivity for all, particularly for individuals with disabilities. Read more here.