Mumbai: Launched in 2022, the ‘Equal At Sea’ initiative enters its third year with remarkable success in India. The programme’s primary objective is to achieve gender equality among Maersk seafarers, address the historical underrepresentation of women amongst seafarers and create an ecosystem for the entire Indian maritime sector to improve gender diversity. The programme brings different stakeholders across the industry on a common platform, which serves as a hub for exchanging ideas, understanding industry challenges, learning from each other, and implementing best practices.
His Excellency Freddy Svane, Ambassador of Denmark to India, said, “The seas know no gender. By championing diversity in maritime careers, Maersk is not only steering towards equality but also charting a course for innovation and growth in the shipping industry. Denmark and India, as maritime nations, must lead this tide of change.” He added, “This industry-wide effort to create more opportunities for women in maritime careers will undoubtedly strengthen our global shipping community and drive progress and sustainability in the years to come.”
Karan Kochhar, Head of Marine People, Asia, Maersk, said, “Our continuous efforts and immense support from the industry has started realising the future of creating an equitable environment at sea for women to thrive in. Through our initiatives, we have successfully inspired more women in India to choose seafaring as a career.” He added, “Getting to 45% has been a great team effort within Maersk and across the industry. Now is the time to keep the momentum up and strive to ensure that the women recruited are also retained in the fleet.”
