World Maritime Day is observed on September 24 every year. The day marks the contribution of international maritime industries towards the economy of the world especially shipping. The day also focuses on the importance of shipping safety, maritime security, and the marine environment.
World Maritime Day was initiated by the United Nations (UN), through the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The day is to celebrate the contribution offered by the industry of international maritime towards the world’s economy, especially in shipping. World Maritime Day was observed for the first time on 17 March 1978. The day is observed to mark when the IMO Convention entered into force in the year 1958. The date of an event organized varies from country to country and year by year but it is always observed in the last week of September.
The theme for 2020 World Maritime Day is “Sustainable shipping for a sustainable planet”. This theme is to focus on providing an opportunity to raise awareness of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The theme aims to provide flexibility to IMO and its Member States to highlight the myriad topics and challenges in fulfilling the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.