Exploring Practical Insights from the Front Lines; Fostering Onboard Environments that Empower Women

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, announced that on May 18, it held an online event for seafarers to commemorate International Day for Women in Maritime 2026 , established by the International Maritime Organization (. Introduced by MOL last year, this event aims to deepen understanding of the work environments and challenges faced by women seafarers and to promote the creation of an onboard workplace where they can work with confidence and thrive.

In addition to seafarers and cadets, many participants from manning companies and ship management companies also joined, bringing the total number of attendees to 90. Notably, seafarers comprised of not just women but men as well which created an opportunity to deepen understanding of women seafarers’ challenges and concerns and build a shared awareness across the organization.
The seafarers’ discussion session featured a lively exchange of views from diverse perspectives, covering topics including the various challenges experienced on board and effective ways to seek support.

In the event, a cheering message was delivered by our MOL Welfare Officer. In addition, Kelly Takano, general manager of the IT & Digital Strategy Unit and a member of the Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association Japan (WISTA Japan ^{Note 3)}, provided an overview of WISTA International’s activities.
The MOL Group positions diversity, equity, and inclusion-including the promotion of women’s advancement-as a new driver of growth. The group has incorporated this concept as one of the core principles of its “Human Capital Vision,” a key initiative for strengthening its management foundation under Phase 2 of its management plan, “BLUE ACTION 2035.” Going forward, the group will continue to promote the advancement of women seafarers and leverage the diverse personalities, skills, and experiences within the organization to drive sustainable growth in corporate value.