World Maritime Day

Every year, in the last week of September, the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) celebrates World Maritime Day

The IMO is a specialist agency of the United Nations. Key responsibilities are

safety and security of international shipping

preventing marine pollution

This is achieved largely through development and implementation of international agreements. World Maritime Day is an opportunity to raise awareness of shipping and seafaring. Every year a theme is chosen is to focus attention on particular aspects of the work of the IMO.

World Maritime Day 2007

World Maritime Day 2007 fell on Thursday 27 September. The theme was:

IMO’s response to current environmental challenges

The lives of the People of the Sea are closely connected to their environment. Damage to the environment, pollution of coastal areas and depletion of fish stocks reduces the quality of their lives.

Events marking World Maritime Day are held on every continent. In ports around the world, AOS is active in these events. Participation in World Maritime Day enables us to raise awareness of maritime issues. We work to bring different sectors of the maritime world together in dialogue, promoting the welfare and dignity of seafarers.

click here to read about environmental issues and People of the Sea

click here to read an interview with Vatican Radio on World Maritime Day 2007

click here to read about World Maritime Day 2006 celebrations in the port of Chennai, India

Feast of Our Lady, Star of the Sea

27 September is also the Feast of Our Lady, Star of the Sea.

click here to read more about this feast day on the AOS GB website