Honours for Diversity and Inclusion in Maritime, 8 March 2024

Maritime transport, vital for global trade, faces challenges like staff shortages and lack of diversity. The Belgian EU Presidency hosted the 'Conference on the Wellbeing of Seafarers' on International Women’s Day, March 8, 2024, featuring the 'Honours for Diversity and Inclusion in Maritime' award ceremony.

WISTA Belgium, ECSA, Intermanager, and ETF, in collaboration with the European Commission’s Women in Transport Platform, hosted these awards to recognise global maritime sector efforts in enhancing diversity in the workforce.

A jury comprising Paul van Tigchelt, Belgian Federal Minister of Justice and the North Sea, Dr Evette Smith-Johnson, President of Women in Maritime Association of the Caribbean (WiMAC) and Director at the Caribbean Maritime University, and Magda Kopczyńska, Director-General of DG, nominated the winners in three categories:

Best Diversity & Inclusion: Costa Crociere Italy - Leading in transgender employee engagement with tailored policies like restroom access & dress codes, fostering equality & inclusive culture.

Best Anti-Harassment Initiative: Women Offshore U.S.A. - Spearheading the S.A.V.E. Program to protect women & LGBTIQ+ individuals, empowering reporting and fostering change in maritime workplaces.

Best New Initiative: 'I Exist Too', Panama - Championed by Gustavo Aguilar, amplifying voices of LGBTIQ+ maritime workers through a groundbreaking international conference, promoting inclusivity and diversity.

A declaration promoting equality in the maritime industry and other initiatives, like a registered charity, were launched. Congratulations to all winners for their inspiring efforts shaping a more inclusive maritime sector.