World Maritime Day Date in the current year: September 29, 2016

World Maritime Day World Maritime Day is an annual United Nations observance organized by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). It is celebrated during the last week of September, the exact date is appointed each year.

IMO is a UN specialized agency that was established in 1948 and came to force in 1959. It focuses on developing and maintaining a comprehensive regulatory framework for shipping.

World Maritime Day was launched by IMO in 1978. It was originally celebrated on March 17, but in 1980 the observance was moved to the last week of September. Each IMO member state has the right to choose the most suitable date to hold events during the week. The observance is aimed at raising awareness about maritime safety and recognize the achievements of the international shipping industry.

The main event dedicated to World Maritime Day is held at IMO Headquarters in London, United Kingdom. Since 2005, a formal parallel event has been held each year. The parallel event is hosted by an IMO member state. It is not necessarily held on the same date. Each year, the new theme for the day is selected. IMO encourages its member states to hold events and activities, which focus on the current theme, throughout the entire year.

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World Maritime Day, UN observance, United Nations Observance, International Maritime Organization