INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S MONTH

International Women’s Month: Celebrating the women shaping the future of seafood and the ocean. Fish Focus celebrates women in seafood in our latest publication.

Each March, the world marks International Women’s Day as part of the wider recognition of International Women’s Month, a time dedicated to celebrating the achievements of women and advancing gender equality across society. While many industries highlight women’s leadership and progress, one area where their contributions are increasingly visible but still often overlooked is the global seafood and ocean sector.

Across aquaculture farms, fishing vessels, laboratories and coastal communities, women play an essential role in shaping the future of seafood production and ocean stewardship.

Women across the seafood sector

Seafood remains one of the most important global food industries, providing livelihoods for millions and a vital source of nutrition for billions of people. According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation, women represent a significant share of the workforce within fisheries and aquaculture, particularly in post-harvest activities and local markets.

Much of this work happens away from public view. Women frequently manage seafood processing operations, coordinate distribution networks, operate aquaculture hatcheries and contribute to the day-to-day functioning of coastal fisheries.

In many parts of the world, women are also central to small-scale fisheries. They help manage family businesses, maintain supply chains and pass down traditional knowledge about marine ecosystems and sustainable harvesting practices.

As the seafood industry evolves with new technologies, improved sustainability standards and expanding global trade, women are increasingly taking on leadership roles that influence how seafood is produced, marketed and managed.

Innovation in aquaculture

Aquaculture is the fastest growing form of food production worldwide and women are contributing significantly to its development. Female entrepreneurs, farmers and researchers are helping introduce more sustainable practices that support both productivity and environmental responsibility.

Their work includes improving aquaculture feeds, advancing shellfish and seaweed cultivation, strengthening fish health management and developing better systems for monitoring environmental impacts.

These contributions are particularly important as the industry seeks to balance growth with responsible stewardship of marine and freshwater ecosystems. Women leading aquaculture initiatives are also bringing fresh perspectives to community engagement, business development and climate resilience within the sector.

Women in commercial fishing

Commercial fishing has long been perceived as a predominantly male profession. In reality, women have always been involved in fishing communities and their role continues to expand.

Today women work aboard vessels as crew members and skippers, oversee fisheries monitoring programmes and lead organisations representing fishing communities. They also play key roles in fisheries management, advocacy and policy discussions.

Groups such as the Women in Seafood Industry Association and the International Collective in Support of Fishworkers help bring greater visibility to women working throughout the seafood supply chain. Their work focuses on improving labour conditions, supporting professional development and ensuring that women’s voices are included in decisions affecting fisheries.

Advancing marine science

Women are also shaping the future of the oceans through scientific research. Marine scientists around the world are studying the complex challenges facing ocean ecosystems and fisheries.

Organisations including The Oceanography Society and Women in Ocean Science support networks that encourage women to pursue careers in ocean research and leadership.

Their research addresses critical issues such as marine biodiversity, climate change, fisheries sustainability, ocean chemistry and habitat restoration. The knowledge generated by these scientists helps guide conservation strategies and inform policies designed to protect marine environments.

Continuing challenges

Despite the progress made in recent years, women across the seafood sector still face a range of barriers. These can include limited access to financing, fewer opportunities for advancement, unequal recognition of their work and under-representation in decision-making bodies.

International initiatives supported by organisations such as UN Women and the Food and Agriculture Organisation are working to address these challenges by promoting gender equality within fisheries governance and supporting programmes that empower women throughout the seafood value chain.

Looking towards a more inclusive ocean economy

International Women’s Month provides an opportunity to recognise the essential contributions women make to seafood production, marine science and the broader ocean economy. Their work strengthens coastal communities, improves sustainability practices and supports global food security.

As the seafood sector continues to evolve, ensuring that women have equal access to opportunities, leadership roles and resources will be crucial. A more inclusive industry not only advances gender equality but also supports healthier oceans and a more resilient global seafood system.

The future of seafood and ocean stewardship will depend on collaboration, innovation and diverse leadership. Women across fisheries, aquaculture and marine science are already helping to lead that transformation.

We will be posting each individual article on our website over the coming weeks, but you can read the complete issue in our publications section here.

If you are a women working in the seafood/marine industry and you would like to be part of our next issue of Women in Seafood, or if you know of someone who you think should be, please contact me at mary@fishfocus.co.uk

Image: Grace Carr