ABSTRACT
Women in maritime governance: In search of credible evidence
The International Maritime Organization agenda for promoting the integration of women in the maritime sector has been gaining more prominence, aiming at the creation of gender equity, since its inception three decades ago. Initiatives and networks for change towards equity are becoming more frequent in the media and there are increasing signs of womens’ visibility in maritime decision making. Whilst this may reflect the truth, it sits in contrast with the availability of, or access to credible evidence that verifies the effectiveness and long term impact of such initiatives. This paper explores the role of universities in producing evidence through networking, which can be used to transform the maritime sector’s gender imbalance. However, the key to producing credible evidence has to go beyond the academic realm and engage all stakeholders in the process, through the formation of cross-sectoral and sustainable partnerships. The outputs will highlight problems women face in maritime and global ocean governance and will form the basis for improving procedures for equality put in place by national and international stakeholders.