IMO Secretary-General underscores women’s potential to transform ocean industries. This year’s International Day for Women in Maritime, celebrated annually on 18 May, will spotlight pathways for women’s leadership, participation and impact in the global ocean economy. Shipping carries more than 80% of global trade in goods and is essential to everyone on the planet. However, the sector remains male-dominated - women make up less than 20% of the maritime workforce onshore, with significantly lower participation at sea. To discuss how closing this gender gap could unlock growth and opportunities across the industry, the International Maritime Organization is hosting a symposium in London on Friday,16 May under the theme: ‘An Ocean of Opportunities for Women’. The event will bring together leading ocean and maritime figures from around the world to share insights and solutions that can shape policies and actions to promote women’s participation. (....)