As part of the commemoration of the Day of the Seafarer 2026, the Network of Women in Maritime Authorities of Latin America (MAMLa Network) held a regional virtual seminar that brought together maritime authorities, industry professionals, representatives from academia, students, and members of the international maritime community to reflect on the contribution of seafarers to global economic development and the challenges they face in carrying out their profession.

The event was held under the International Maritime Organization (IMO) theme, “My Harassment-Free Ship” (or replace with your preferred official 2026 campaign slogan if different), highlighting the essential role that women and men at sea play in keeping global supply chains operating and ensuring the delivery of goods essential to societies around the world.

During the opening session, Magdalena Santos Polanco, President of the MAMLa Network, expressed her recognition and gratitude to all seafarers, emphasizing that their work is a fundamental pillar of international maritime trade and the global economy. She also reaffirmed the Network’s commitment to promoting safe, decent, and equitable working conditions for those who carry out their duties on board ships.

The event also featured the official message from the IMO Secretary-General, who highlighted the risks and challenges currently faced by crews navigating through areas affected by conflict and geopolitical tensions, underscoring the importance of protecting the safety and well-being of seafarers worldwide.

As part of the program, distinguished speakers from across the region shared their expertise. Raquel Meza Labarra, Founder and President of the Mascarona Foundation for Seafarers and President of WISTA Chile, delivered the presentation “Seafarers: Risk and Routine—90% of Global Trade in Their Hands.” She discussed the importance of the physical, mental, and social well-being of seafarers, as well as various initiatives developed in Chile to strengthen the training, inclusion, and recognition of seafarers and their families.

Following her presentation, Captain Guillermo Vargas Orellana, President of the Pilot Pardo Merchant Marine Professional Institute of Chile, shared his experiences in the presentation “Experiences at Sea: Transporting Global Trade.” He offered valuable insights into leadership, decision-making, emergency management, technological adaptation, and the education of future merchant marine officers. His testimony provided participants with a closer understanding of the realities and challenges faced by professionals pursuing careers at sea.

The third presentation was delivered by Lieutenant Bettina Santana Botella, of the National Navy of Uruguay and Alternate Representative of Uruguay to the MAMLa Network. Her presentation, “Safe Maneuvers, Efficient Operations: Managing the Risks that Sustain Global Trade,” emphasized the importance of risk management, continuous training, accident prevention, and a strong safety culture as essential elements in protecting human life at sea and ensuring the safe conduct of maritime operations.

The presentations were followed by an engaging discussion with participants, who raised questions on topics including seafarers’ welfare, mental health, professional training, leadership, employability, emerging technologies, and maritime risk management.

In closing the event, the Director of the MAMLa Network’s Maritime Technical Affairs Committee noted that the commemoration served as a reminder that behind every shipment transported by sea lies a human story of commitment, sacrifice, and professionalism. She also reaffirmed the Network’s commitment to promoting a safer, more inclusive, and more sustainable maritime sector.

Through this regional event, the MAMLa Network paid tribute to all women and men who make up the global community of seafarers and renewed its recognition of those who, through their dedication, resilience, and spirit of service, keep the world connected through maritime transport.