World Maritime Day 2021

September 29, 2021

World Maritime Day is observed on the last Thursday of September month. In the year, it will be observed on September 30, 2020.

Key Points

World Maritime Day is observed to appreciate the importance of maritime industry and to underline the importance of maritime security, maritime safety, maritime environment, and shipping.
This day also marks the day of adaptation of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) convention. IMO was adapted in 1958.
World Maritime Day was first observed in 1978.

How this day is celebrated?

In India, International Maritime Day is observed by organising “awards ceremony” every year. It is organised to recognise the contribution made by members of the Indian Maritime industry in past 12 months. In the year 2021, event will centre around an international conference which was held on World Maritime Day in South Africa. During the event, industry influencers will convene to raise awareness regarding the focus issues for those in the seafaring community.

About World Maritime Day

World Maritime Day is an annual celebration, which was founded by the United Nations (UN) in association with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO). The day celebrates the contribution that the maritime industry makes towards the global economy. Without international transportation of goods, facilitated by the maritime industry, global economy would be unable to function. But this fact is overlooked by many. However, World Maritime Day is organised to address this issue.

Background

World Maritime day was first held on March 17, 1978 to mark 20th anniversary of establishment of IMO. Since its conception, IMO members states have increased from original 21 to 167. IMO now encompasses all major nations who are involved in maritime industry.