Gdynia Maritime University GMU

The main building of Gdynia Maritime University and Dar Młodzieży sailing ship moored at the Pomeranian Quay in Gdynia were lit up in blue on World Maritime Day, 30th September 2021.

For several hours, from 7.00pm. to 10.00pm, you could see the blue-lit GMU and the Dar Młodzieży, as well as other Gdynia buildings connected with the maritime economy, including the walls of the Maritime Office in Gdynia and the Tri-City ports. The action is an initiative of the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and is part of efforts to highlight the key role of seafarers in shipping and its future.

At the same time that key maritime buildings in Gdynia began to shine with blue light, the IMO headquarters in London, and in particular the seafarer sculpture located at the building’s main entrance, also glowed with the colour associated with the maritime sector.

The initiative, which will take place annually, is symbolic of efforts to bring together the maritime community to raise awareness of the important role of shipping in the world economy.

In 2021, the IMO has encouraged international governments to provide support to mariners during the Covid-19 pandemic. Of particular importance is the minimisation of border restrictions for key transport workers. The organisation has also expressed concerns about the lack of possibilities to return home for many seafarers and the resultant isolation and potential increased incidence of depression or other psychological problems following the extension of contracts during the pandemic.