Fiji’s Maritime Industry Faces Gender Safety Crisis: Urgent Reform Needed

Sexual harassment remains a significant issue in Fiji’s maritime industry, a fact highlighted by Stephie Dunn from the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre during the recent World Seafarers Day event at the School of Maritime. With an increasing number of women entering the maritime workforce, Dunn revealed that these women often face unwelcome sexual advances, crude jokes, and even physical assault while working on ships.

The challenge is exacerbated in maritime roles, where the predominantly male workforce creates a unique environment that makes it difficult for victims to report incidents. Dunn pointed out that when on a vessel, women have no choice but to wait until docking to seek assistance, and even then, navigating legal remedies becomes complex due to the nuances of international waters.

Despite these troubling circumstances, the maritime sector in Fiji is witnessing a transformative shift, with more women taking on roles across various levels, from trainee positions to leadership. However, Dunn emphasized that without systemic reforms to ensure their safety, the industry risks losing talented women who might otherwise contribute significantly.

Echoing these concerns, calls for urgent reforms are being made to create safer working environments for women in maritime. Initiatives such as establishing clear policies against harassment, accountability measures for offenders, and comprehensive support for survivors are critical steps towards fostering an inclusive maritime culture.

Past articles have underscored the importance of these changes, already indicated by the growing presence of women in leadership roles in Fiji’s maritime and other traditionally male-dominated sectors. Recent movements advocating for gender equality and support systems, such as mentorship programs and community awareness campaigns, contribute towards a more equitable workplace for women.

As Fiji continues to celebrate events like the Day of the Seafarers and pushes for change, there is hope that persistent advocacy can lead to a more inclusive and supportive maritime environment. Strengthening policies and cultural norms is essential not only for the welfare of female seafarers but also for the overall growth and reputation of Fiji’s maritime industry.