.png "Why Do More Filipino Women Join the Merchant Navy, and Why Are Women from Other Countries Reluctant?")
In the world of maritime trade and the merchant navy, women are still largely underrepresented, yet one country stands out for its significant contribution of female seafarers: the Philippines. While globally, women account for only a small percentage of the workforce in the merchant navy, the Philippines has made strides in promoting gender diversity at sea, with a growing number of Filipino women opting for careers as seafarers.
But the question arises: why are Filipino women so prominent in this industry while women from other countries appear hesitant to pursue a career at sea? In this article, we’ll explore the cultural, societal, and economic factors that drive Filipino women to join the merchant navy, while delving into the barriers that discourage women from other parts of the world.
1. The Appeal of Merchant Navy Jobs for Filipino Women
a. Economic Necessity and Overseas Work Culture
One of the driving factors behind why Filipino women join the merchant navy is economic necessity. The Philippines has a long history of sending its workers abroad, a tradition deeply embedded in the culture. Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) contribute significantly to the country’s economy, sending billions of dollars back home in remittances every year. With limited high-paying job opportunities domestically, many Filipinos, including women, seek employment overseas to support their families.
The merchant navy, offering competitive salaries, has become an attractive option for both men and women in the Philippines. Women, in particular, view it as an opportunity to break free from low-paying domestic jobs and secure a better future. This sense of financial empowerment and independence is a strong motivator for Filipino women to venture into a field traditionally dominated by men.
b. Government Support and Maritime Training Institutions
The Philippine government actively supports the training and deployment of Filipino seafarers, including women. The country is home to several world-class maritime training institutions that offer specialized programs for those seeking a career in the merchant navy. These institutions not only provide technical and maritime skills but also encourage gender diversity in their enrollment policies.
In 2010, the Philippines became the first country to ratify the International Maritime Organization’s Maritime Labour Convention, which promotes the rights and safety of seafarers, regardless of gender. The government’s efforts to create equal opportunities for both men and women in the maritime industry have led to a steady rise in the number of Filipino women joining the merchant navy.
c. Cultural Flexibility and Resilience of Filipino Women
Filipino women are known for their resilience, adaptability, and willingness to take on challenges, traits that are well-suited for life at sea. Merchant navy jobs require long periods away from home, often in tough and unpredictable conditions. Filipino women, accustomed to overcoming adversity and balancing family responsibilities, are culturally more inclined to accept these challenges.
Moreover, the Philippines has a relatively progressive attitude toward gender roles. While there are still traditional expectations in some areas, women are widely accepted in various professional fields, including those traditionally dominated by men, such as engineering, aviation, and now the maritime sector. This cultural flexibility allows Filipino women to pursue careers in the merchant navy without facing intense social pressure or gender bias.
2. Why Are Women from Other Countries Hesitant?.png "Why Do More Filipino Women Join the Merchant Navy, and Why Are Women from Other Countries Reluctant?")
.png "Why Do More Filipino Women Join the Merchant Navy, and Why Are Women from Other Countries Reluctant?")
Despite efforts to increase diversity at sea, the vast majority of women from other countries remain reluctant to join the merchant navy. There are several reasons for this, ranging from cultural and societal barriers to safety concerns and a lack of industry support for women.
a. Cultural and Societal Barriers
In many countries, deeply entrenched gender roles still dictate that women pursue more traditionally “feminine” careers. Professions such as teaching, nursing, or administrative work are often seen as more appropriate for women, while careers that involve manual labor or long absences from home, such as those in the merchant navy, are still viewed as “men’s work.”
In certain societies, women face significant resistance when trying to break into male-dominated industries. The maritime sector, in particular, has historically been perceived as rough, dangerous, and not suitable for women. This societal pressure can discourage young women from even considering the merchant navy as a career option. For instance, in countries where traditional values are more pronounced, women might fear being judged or ostracized for choosing a career that takes them away from home for months at a time.
Moreover, the perception of family responsibilities weighs heavily on women in some cultures. The idea that women should prioritize marriage, motherhood, and caregiving over professional ambitions can prevent them from pursuing demanding careers like those in the maritime industry. In these contexts, it becomes more challenging for women to make the leap into the unknown, especially when the job requires extended separation from their families.
b. Lack of Awareness and Exposure
Another key factor is the lack of awareness and exposure to maritime careers. In many countries, young women are not exposed to the idea of working at sea or do not have role models who have pursued such careers. While the Philippines has made maritime education more accessible and visible, other countries lag behind in promoting these opportunities to women.
For instance, in Western countries, young women may not see the merchant navy as a viable or appealing option simply because it’s not promoted or discussed in educational settings. The lack of female representation in maritime-related media, career fairs, and outreach programs means that many women may never even consider the merchant navy as a potential career path.
c. Safety Concerns and Harassment
One of the most significant reasons why women from other countries are reluctant to join the merchant navy is the issue of safety. While life at sea presents challenges for all seafarers, women often face unique risks. Harassment, discrimination, and even assault are real concerns for women working in male-dominated industries like the merchant navy. These fears can be amplified by the isolated nature of life at sea, where there may be little opportunity to seek help or report incidents.
Many women hesitate to enter the merchant navy because they are concerned about how they will be treated onboard. Reports of sexual harassment or bullying from male colleagues or superiors can create an intimidating environment. In some cases, shipping companies may not have adequate policies in place to protect female employees or to address grievances, making the job seem even riskier.
Filipino women, on the other hand, are often more willing to take on these risks because of the strong community and support network they have within the maritime industry. Many Filipino seafarers have relatives or friends who work at sea, and this network can provide a sense of security and camaraderie. Additionally, the Philippine government and shipping companies have worked to implement policies that protect women at sea, including zero-tolerance policies for harassment.
d. Physical and Mental Demands
The physical demands of working on a cargo ship or tanker can be daunting for anyone, but for women, there may be added pressure to prove their capabilities in a male-dominated field. Many women are concerned about whether they can handle the physically challenging tasks associated with certain roles onboard, such as manual cargo handling, engine maintenance, or long hours on the bridge.
In addition to the physical demands, the mental strain of being away from home for extended periods can be a significant barrier for women. Seafarers often spend months away from their families, living in close quarters with their crewmates in a confined and isolated environment. For some women, the idea of being away from their loved ones for so long or the lack of social interaction outside of the crew can be off-putting.
In contrast, Filipino women often have experience working abroad in similar conditions, either as domestic workers, nurses, or caregivers. Many are already accustomed to the idea of working far from home for extended periods and have developed the resilience needed to cope with the isolation and challenges of life at sea.
e. Lack of Industry Support and Mentorship
Another significant factor that keeps women from other countries from joining the merchant navy is the lack of industry support and mentorship programs specifically aimed at women. While organizations like the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association (WISTA) are working to promote gender diversity at sea, there is still a long way to go in terms of providing mentorship, career development, and support for women in the maritime industry.
Without adequate support systems in place, women may feel isolated or unsupported when entering the merchant navy. In some countries, women face additional hurdles in terms of obtaining the necessary maritime education and training, as well as securing employment. The lack of female mentors and role models in the industry can also make it more difficult for women to envision themselves in maritime careers.
The Philippines, in contrast, has made significant progress in developing female-friendly policies and offering mentorship opportunities for women in the maritime sector. As a result, Filipino women entering the merchant navy have access to a network of support and role models who have successfully navigated the challenges of life at sea.
3. The Way Forward: Encouraging More Women to Join the Merchant Navy.png "Why Do More Filipino Women Join the Merchant Navy, and Why Are Women from Other Countries Reluctant?")
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While Filipino women have demonstrated resilience and adaptability in pursuing careers in the merchant navy, the industry must take active steps to encourage more women from other countries to join its ranks. Here are some strategies that could help break down barriers and promote gender diversity at sea:
a. Increased Awareness and Outreach
Shipping companies, maritime training institutions, and industry organizations need to do more to promote careers in the merchant navy to young women. This can be done through educational outreach programs, career fairs, and campaigns that highlight the benefits of working at sea, including competitive salaries, travel opportunities, and the chance to build a rewarding career.
b. Mentorship and Support Networks
Establishing mentorship programs and support networks for women entering the maritime industry can provide them with the guidance, encouragement, and resources they need to succeed. Women who have already made successful careers in the merchant navy can serve as mentors, offering advice and sharing their experiences with younger generations.
c. Addressing Safety Concerns
Shipping companies must implement strict policies to address and prevent harassment, discrimination, and assault at sea. Providing a safe and supportive environment for female seafarers is crucial for attracting more women to the industry. This can be achieved through zero-tolerance policies, training programs on gender sensitivity, and the creation of reporting mechanisms that allow women to speak up without fear of retaliation.
d. Promoting Gender Diversity in Maritime Education
Maritime training institutions need to encourage more women to enroll in their programs by offering scholarships, creating female-friendly learning environments, and promoting gender diversity in their recruitment efforts. By providing women with the skills and qualifications they need to succeed at sea, these institutions can help close the gender gap in the merchant navy.
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