World Maritime Day 2026: From policy to practice: Powering maritime excellence

"FROM policy to practice: Powering maritime excellence" is the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) World Maritime Day theme for 2026 and 2027, culminating in the annual celebration on the final Thursday of September.

For the first time, the theme is to run for two years, highlighting IMO’s clear commitment to put policies into practice.

IMO Headquarters is to be bathed in blue light in the evening of the day to promote the theme. IMO invites Member States, intergovernmental organizations in cooperation with IMO, and non-governmental organizations in consultative status with IMO to light up landmarks.

According to the IMO from policy to practice underscores IMO's core mission of ensuring that the global regulatory framework it develops is not merely adopted in principle but translated into concrete national legislation, enforcement and day-to-day operations across the maritime sector.

Image: IMO

“Powering" signals the momentum and targeted support through capacity-building, technical cooperation and knowledge sharing which IMO, together with its partners, provides to drive this transition.

"Maritime excellence" conveys the ultimate objective: a consistently safe, secure, efficient and environmentally sustainable shipping industry, operating to the highest international standards and continually striving for improvement.

Together, the theme is said to convey a holistic, action-oriented commitment: turning collective regulatory decisions into real-world results that deliver tangible benefits for all.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres said “with at least 80% of international trade moving by sea, maritime shipping keeps our world afloat”.

“For nearly eight decades, countries have worked together to develop conventions and codes,” Secretary-General Guterres said.

“But this critical framework is under strain. Conflicts and geopolitical tensions are infringing on navigational rights and freedoms that must be restored. The lives of seafarers are being threatened, and the global supply of fuel, fertilisers and food has been disrupted.

“These shocks to the global economy have devastating consequences, especially for developing countries.

“That is why the theme of World Maritime Day for 2026 and 2027 is From Policy to Practice: Powering Maritime Excellence. It speaks to the vital importance of adhering to international law and ensuring it is fully implemented.”

Australia seeks re-election to IMO Council

To mark World Maritime Day, the Australian Government has announced that it will seek another two-year term on the IMO Council, nominating for re-election to ‘Category B’ of the IMO Council, which is comprised of states with the largest interest in international seaborne trade.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong said Australia’s candidacy reflected its ongoing support for the rules and norms that underpin shared prosperity and shared security.

“As a middle power, we will continue to support the rules and norms that underpin shared prosperity and shared security,” Ms Wong said.

“Our candidacy reflects that commitment, working with partners across all regions to address shared maritime challenges and opportunities.

“Through our membership of the IMO Council, Australia strengthens international cooperation and supports global maritime trade, which underpins energy and food security for Australia, the Indo-Pacific and beyond.

“We are proud to work with all IMO Member States and maritime partners toward a safer and more sustainable global maritime system, and look forward to continuing that contribution if re-elected.”

Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said the country’s trade position made continued representation on the council important.

“The vast majority of Australia’s imports and exports rely on a strong, safe and sustainable maritime sector,” Ms King said.

“Shipping connects our island nation to global markets, so it’s vital we have a seat at the table where international standards are established.

“Over decades, Australia has been a reliable and constructive voice on the IMO Council, advocating for maritime safety, environmental protection, seafarer welfare and practical solutions to emerging challenges facing international shipping.

“Australia is seeking re-election so we can continue to contribute our expertise to the IMO and collaboratively shape the future of global shipping.”