World Maritime Day 2024 (26th September), Theme & History

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World Maritime Day 2024

World Maritime Day is observed every year on the last Thursday of September. Its purpose is to draw attention to the critical aspects of shipping safety, maritime security, and the marine environment, while also highlighting specific aspects of the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) work.

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In the year 2024, World Maritime Day will be celebrated on September 26th. It emphasizes the significance of these maritime issues and the role of the IMO in addressing them.

World Maritime Day Theme 2024

As of today, the theme for the World Maritime Day 2024 has not been announced yet.

The theme for World Maritime Day 2023 was “MARPOL at 50 — Our commitment goes on”. This theme underscores the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) extensive history of safeguarding the environment from the impacts of shipping through a robust regulatory framework and highlights its ongoing dedication to this critical mission. The theme specifically focuses on the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL), which addresses the prevention of marine environment pollution caused by ships, whether through operational actions or accidental incidents.

The theme seeks to encourage further discussions regarding the next phase of IMO’s efforts to promote the sustainable use and protection of our planet and oceans, aligning with the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These goals encompass various aspects, including affordable and clean energy (SDG 7), industry, innovation, and infrastructure (SDG 9), climate action, sustainable use of oceans, seas, and marine resources (SDGs 13 and 14), and the importance of partnerships and implementation to achieve these objectives (SDG 17).

Other Important Days in September 2024

History of World Maritime Day

World Maritime Day was established in 1978 by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), a specialized agency of the United Nations. The IMO is responsible for developing and maintaining a comprehensive regulatory framework for shipping, covering safety, security, and environmental protection.

World Maritime Day is celebrated annually on the last Thursday of September. The theme for each year’s celebration is chosen by the IMO to highlight a particular aspect of its work.

World Maritime Day is an opportunity to celebrate the important role that shipping plays in the global economy and to raise awareness of the importance of safety, security, and environmental protection in the maritime industry. It is also an opportunity to recognize the work of the IMO in promoting these goals.

Significance of World Maritime Day

International shipping plays a pivotal role in the global economy, facilitating the transportation of more than 80 percent of global trade to people and communities worldwide. It stands as the most efficient and cost-effective means of transporting goods internationally, offering a reliable and economically viable way to move products across the globe. This efficiency in shipping not only supports commerce but also contributes to the prosperity of nations and their inhabitants.

International Maritime Organization (IMO)

A safe, secure, and efficient international shipping industry is vital for global trade and serves as an indispensable component for fostering sustainable economic growth in an environmentally responsible manner. Sustainable shipping and maritime development are key priorities for the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in the years ahead. Thus, IMO’s commitment encompasses energy efficiency, the adoption of new technologies and innovations, maritime education and training, maritime security, effective maritime traffic management, and the development of maritime infrastructure. Establishing and implementing global standards addressing these and other relevant issues is essential to reinforce IMO’s dedication to providing the necessary institutional framework for a green and sustainable global maritime transportation system.

26th September 2024 Special Day

On September 26, 2024, we observe World Maritime Day, emphasizing the critical dimensions of shipping safety, maritime security, and the marine environment. This annual event underscores the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) crucial work in ensuring the sustainability and safety of global maritime activities. Let’s recognize the significance of maritime endeavors and commit to preserving the oceans, fostering safety, and supporting the vital contributions of the maritime industry to the global economy.

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