The United Nations (UN)’s World Maritime Day (WMD) is annually observed on the last Thursday of September to recognize the contribution of the people who work in the maritime industry.
WMD 2023, the 46th World Maritime Day, was observed on 28th September 2023.
- WMD 2022 was observed on 29th September 2022 and the WMD 2024 will be observed on 26th September 2024.
Theme:
The theme for World Maritime Day 2023 is ” MARPOL at 50 – Our commitment goes on”
- The WMD 2023 marks 50th anniversary of the adoption of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL).
- The theme also aims to promote further dialogue on the next phase of IMO’s work to further enhance the sustainable use and protection of our planet and oceans in line with the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Note: The annual observance of WMD is led by International Maritime Organization(IMO), UN’s specialized agency that sets global standard authority for the safety, security and environmental performance of international shipping.
Background:
i.The World Maritime Day was created by the United Nations through its specialized agency International Maritime Organization (IMO).
ii.The first ever WMD was observed on 17th March 1978 to mark the date of the IMO Convention’s entry into force in 1958.
- Since 1978, the day has been celebrated annually and eventually the day was moved to the last Thursday of September.
Significance:
i.the day offers a global platform to recognize the importance of the maritime industry and its contributions to the global economy and society.
ii.The day also highlights the contributions of seafarers and maritime professionals in global economy.
iii.The day also provides an opportunity to raise awareness of the challenges facing the maritime industry, such as marine pollution, climate change, and maritime security.
About MARPOL:
The International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL), adopted on 2 November 1973, is the main international convention covering prevention of pollution of the marine environment by ships from operational or accidental causes.
- The Convention includes regulations aimed at preventing and minimizing pollution from ships – both accidental pollution and that from routine operations.
Recent Related News:
World Hydrographic Day (WHD) is annually celebrated on 21st June across the world to raise awareness of the importance of hydrography and its major role in improving the knowledge of the seas and oceans.
About International Maritime Organization(IMO):
Secretary-General – Kitack Lim
Headquarters – London, United Kingdom
Established in – 1958
