Our 2023 Panama Forum
Discover more about the first-ever international gathering dedicated to LGBTQI+ inclusion in the maritime industry…
Where it all Began…
In May 2023, maritime professionals from around the world gathered in Panama City for the inaugural I Exist Too Forum, the first-ever international gathering dedicated to LGBTQI+ inclusion in the maritime industry. This historic event brought together industry leaders, seafarers, advocates, and allies to address the challenges faced by LGBTQI+ professionals at sea and ashore. The forum culminated in the creation of the I Exist Too Declaration - a pledge signed by organizations and individuals committed to making the maritime industry more inclusive.
Our 2023 Panels
PANEL 1 - EQUAL RIGHT COALITION
The Equal Rights Coalition (ERC) is an intergovernmental body that has 42 member states. It aims to advocate for the protection of the rights of LGBTIQ+ people through participation in different groups in society. The panel seeks to share what the coalition does and how it works, as well as successful cases implemented by member states promoting the protection of LGBTIQ+ rights from a multidimensional and intersectoral perspective.
PANEL 2 - THE ROLE OF THE MARITIME UNION IN THE PROTECTION OF LGBTIQ+ EMPLOYEES
This panel aims to discuss potential inclusive strategies that protect and guarantee the rights of LGBTIQ+ employees within the maritime sector and to evaluate practices implemented in other sectors that can be exported to the maritime sector for the benefit of all employees, especially those of the LGBTIQ+ community.
PANEL 3 - OPPORTUNITIES FOR IMPROVEMENT OF THE MARITIME LABOUR CONVENTION (MLC) IN THE PROTECTION OF LGBTIQ+ EMPLOYEES
This panel will explore opportunities to enhance the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) to better protect the rights of LGBTIQ+ employees within the maritime sector. It will also examine inclusive practices from other industries that could be adapted to support a safer, more equitable environment for all, with a particular focus on the LGBTIQ+ community.
PANEL 4 - WHAT IT MEANS TO BE LBGTIQ+ IN THE MARITIME INDUSTRY?
This panel seeks to share lived experiences of the LGBTIQ+ employees within the maritime industry, with the intention of promoting visibility, raising voices, and promoting awareness to the industry.
PANEL 5 - BEST PRACTICE OF WOMEN INCLUSION IN THE MARITIME INDUSTRY
This panel seeks to evaluate the inclusive process for women within the maritime industry, with the intention of analysing their application from an LGBTIQ+ perspective. This panel seeks to make visible and promote attention to the needs of lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer women within the maritime industry.
PANEL 6 - BEST PRACTICE OF LGBTIQ+ INCLUSION IN MARITIME ORGANIZATIONS
This panel seeks to make visible initiatives that promote the inclusion and protection of the LGBITQ+ employees within the maritime sector. It seeks to promote equitable, inclusive, and integral policies that protect the LGBTIQ+ professionals, and mechanisms for the control and verification of their application.
Forum Gallery
Take a glimpse into the conversations, connections, and collaborations that shaped the first I Exist Too Forum. From discussion to action, these moments mark the beginning of meaningful change within the maritime community.
Click on any photo to view and navigate through the gallery.
Meet Our 2023 Sponsors!
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ITF Seafarers' Trust
SPONSOR
The ITF Seafarers’ Trust, a UK charity established in 1981, funds programmes that advance the wellbeing of maritime workers, seafarers and their families.
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International Chamber of Shipping
SPONSOR
The ICS is the global trade association for shipowners and operators, representing the world’s national shipowner associations and over 80% of the world merchant fleet.
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Newcastle University
SPONSOR
Newcastle University is a research focused university based in Newcastle upon Tyne, England, UK alongside its overseas campuses in Singapore and Malaysia.
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TK Foundation
SPONSOR
The TK Foundation is a private independent foundation that has awarded over $150 million in grants to non-profit organizations and projects to improve the maritime realm.
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Total Marine Solutions
SUPPORTER
Total Marine Solutions was established in 2000 with a specific mission to supply environmental products and services with a commitment to customer service and consistent, reliable support.
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NorthStandard
SUPPORTER
NorthStandard is one of the world’s leading marine insurers with years of experience and an unwavering commitment to delivering expert, market-leading and responsible personal service.
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Panama Canal Pilots Association
SUPPORTER
The Panama Canal Pilots Association is a nonprofit organization which represents the more than 250 Panama Canal pilots. The APCP is affiliated to the International Maritime Pilots’ Association (IMPA).
Explore the Complete Archive
The full archive of the Panama 2023 I Exist Too Forum is hosted by Newcastle University. Explore presentations, speaker profiles, and additional materials from across the event.
Be Part of the Movement!
From Panama to Malta to Bangkok, the I Exist Too movement is building a more inclusive maritime industry, one forum, one policy, one person at a time.
Support us and Donate!
The maritime industry has been silent on LGBTQI+ issues for too long, its time for you to break that silence. Support our forums, programs, initiatives, and advocacy work that's changing the industry from within.
Join our Bangkok Forum in 2027!
The future of the maritime industry depends on collaboration, innovation, and inclusion. Join our Bangkok 2027 Forum to connect with global leaders and help shape a more diverse and progressive industry.
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