Forum boosts support for women in maritime

THE Asia-Pacific Heads of Maritime Safety Agencies (APHo- MSA) Forum held in South Korea brought together senior maritime officials to build and maintain a strong understanding of
shared maritime issues, identify and coordinate technical cooperation efforts and represent the region’s interest in enhancing international standards.
Legal Officer Legislation and Chairperson for the Pacific Women in Maritime Association, Patricia Oii presented the on Women in Maritime paper.
She highlighted the Day for Women in Maritime (D4WIM) to be celebrated in the Pacific region on May 18, and the launching of the Regional Strategy for Pacific Women in the Maritime
Sector (2020-2024) during the upcoming 3rd Regional Energy and Transport Ministers Meeting in Sept, 2019.
There was overwhelming support for Pacific women in maritime from APHOMSA members, Oii acknowledged the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), the Pacific Community (SPC), the Member States, the Maritime Employers and fellow women and men in the sector for providing the space and visibility for pacific women in maritime.
The three-day, high-level 20th Session of APHoMSA, held on April 15-17, was attended by 21 members and five international organisations.
In her presentation, Oii informed APHoMSA members of the Pacific’s progress towards gender equality and contribution towards the UN Sustainable Development Goal 5 through regional
and national networks.
The Asia-Pacific Heads of Maritime Safety Agencies (APHo- MSA) was established in 1996 to promote safe, secure shipping and a clean marine environment within the Asia-Pacific region.