World Maritime Day 2026: From Policy to Practice – Powering Maritime Excellence
Global regulations will deliver safer, more resilient shipping when they are implemented worldwide. The international maritime community marks World Maritime Day on 24 September as shipping faces the direct impacts of wider geopolitical tensions and conflict. Merchant ships have been attacked in multiple conflict zones – from the Strait of Hormuz to the Black Sea ...
Global regulations are instrumental in creating safer, more resilient and environmentally friendly shipping, according to the International Maritime Organization (IMO). World Maritime Day, celebrated each year on September 24th, serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by the maritime industry amid geopolitical tensions and attacks on merchant ships.
The IMO's Secretary-General, Arsenio Dominguez, emphasized that effective implementation of maritime regulations is crucial for the safety of seafarers and the smooth functioning of global trade.
The theme of World Maritime Day in 2026 and 2027 is "From Policy to Practice: Powering Maritime Excellence," highlighting the importance of converting global policy decisions into practical actions. This includes translating IMO regulations into national legislation, strengthening enforcement, and improving training programs. The IMO recently completed its first audit cycle under the Member State Audit Scheme, which revealed that many countries are struggling to translate IMO rules into national law.
Insufficient technical expertise, inadequate infrastructure, and weak oversight of ships were identified as key challenges.
To address these issues, the IMO is focusing on providing technical assistance to countries in need, particularly Least Developed Countries and Small Island Developing States. The organization will target capacity building and technical cooperation in key areas of its work, such as enhancing enforcement and improving national legislation.
In a show of solidarity, the IMO Headquarters in London will be illuminated in blue on September 24th, symbolizing the global commitment to turning maritime policy into practice. Secretary-General Dominguez has invited all Member States, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations to join this initiative by lighting up prominent buildings in blue and sharing their experiences on social media using the hashtags #WorldMaritimeDay and #MaritimePolicytoPractice.
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