Empowering Women In Shipping

Although shipping has been historically male-dominated, the number of women nowadays who belong in the maritime industry is about 23,000 worldwide. It might look like a significant number but it is actually only 2% of the world's maritime workforce.

This number raises many questions as to why women do not choose the maritime industry to build a promising career. Perceptions that this kind of job requires skills and strength that only men have is the most popular reason why women are not encouraged to enter the shipping arena. Sexual harassment or even abuse is the second possible reason which keeps women away from the shipping industry.

The International Maritime Organisation has taken a series of steps and made important efforts towards strengthening the role of women in the shipping industry. Having women aboard ships gives a great advantage as it creates a more natural social environment.