Gdynia Maritime University GMU

Today, 25 September 2025, the maritime sector, led by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), celebrates World Maritime Day. This year's theme is "Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity". On the occasion of World Maritime Day 2025, the IMO, headed by Secretary General Arsenio Dominguez, encourages us to reflect on the effect of climate change and our own activity on maritime ecosystems. The theme of this year's World Maritime Day, as referenced in the slogan "Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity," also aims to highlight the significance of oceans for the quality of life on Earth, including for humankind.

The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Arsenio Dominguez, in his official message referring to the theme of this year's World Maritime Day, reminds us:

The ocean sustains life on Earth as we know it. It allows us to breathe and regulate our climate.

The ocean brings food to our table, connects people across continents and provides global blue ways for the ships which transport 80% of world trade.

But our ocean is under threat. Plastic pollution, rising temperatures, acidification, overfishing. Our oceans are struggling to keep up with human pressure.

The ocean's decline is not a coincidence. It is driven by human activities, however, that also means that we have the power to reverse it. It is our obligation to work collaboratively to reduce pollution, protect marine life and shift to sustainable habits.

Protecting and restoring the ocean is not just a duty. It is our opportunity to build a healthier planet, stronger economies and a safer future for generations to come. 

World Maritime Day was established by the United Nations in 1978, on the 20th anniversary of the convention which appointed the International Maritime Organisation (IMO). It aims to raise awareness that the seas are a shared resource, and the protection of the marine environment should be a matter of concern and responsibility for everyone.