Breaking Barriers: Gender Equality and Sustainable Development in the Italian Port Industry

Purpose - Promoting gender equality within the port industry is not only a matter of fairness but also a crucial factor in fostering the sustainable growth and inclusiveness of the sector. As the port sector has historically been male-dominated, with roles often assigned based on gender, achieving this goal presents a real challenge. Indeed, this study addresses the gender segregation inherent in Italian ports, where the distribution of roles and opportunities remains strongly influenced by traditional gender norms. In particular, the study highlights the nature and extent of inequalities in employment, career advancement, and the level of representation at the various operational levels of the port industry. Finally, the paper provides an overview of the initiatives and practices implemented to promote gender equity in Italian ports. Design/Methodology/Approach - The study adopts a qualitative methodology with an interpretive lens, based on a review of the literature on the topic. Secondary sources such as journal articles, books, reports and online resources serve as the basis for the analysis. Findings – The results of this study demonstrate the persistence of gender inequalities within the Italian port industry, particularly evident in horizontal and vertical segregation. There is a significant under-representation of women in senior operational roles, with participation limited to specific job categories. Implications for research and practice - By outlining the current state of gender equality in Italian ports, this study contributes to academic discourse and encourages future research on gender issues in the maritime industry. Originality/Value - This paper provides insights into the Italian port sector, particularly the representation of women in maritime roles, and examines initiatives to reduce gender bias in a traditionally male-dominated sector.