2024 Review of State Action at Sea in the Mediterranean

Strengthening maritime safety, environmental protection, and operational coordination

As 2025 begins, the Maritime Prefecture of the Mediterranean (PREMAR MED) has released its annual report on State Action at Sea (AEM) for 2024. The year saw a slight increase in operations led by the Regional Operational Surveillance and Rescue Center for the Mediterranean (CROSS MED), with a +4.5% rise compared to 2023, reflecting continued vigilance and commitment at sea.

Key Highlights of 2024

🔹 4,310 rescue and assistance operations were coordinated by CROSS MED, involving 10,578 people—a +13.5% increase compared to 2023.
🔹 94,205 hours of navigation by maritime assets and 1,500 flight hours by aerial units—averaging more than 10 sea patrol units and 4 flight hours per day.
🔹 249,142 vessels monitored by the Navy’s coastal semaphore stations.
🔹 15,046 controls conducted at sea, including 860 fishing regulation checks.
🔹 730 suspected anchoring violations, a 22% decrease, showing improved awareness and compliance.
🔹 935 explosive devices neutralized, totaling 953 kg of TNT equivalent.
🔹 Successful maritime security during the 2024 Paris Olympic Games sailing events in Marseille, with no incidents reported, thanks to the efforts of 14 government agencies, 50 maritime units, and 450 daily personnel.

A Long-Term Commitment to the Ocean

Beyond rescue and law enforcement, the State Action at Sea continues to advance environmental protection. The drop in anchoring infractions and the increasing removal of derelict vessels demonstrate clear progress in coastal cleanup and regulation enforcement.

This comprehensive effort, coordinated at the national level by the General Secretariat for the Sea (SG Mer), is directed by Vice-Admiral Christophe Lucas, Prefect Maritime for the Mediterranean. AEM ensures 365-day, 24/7 protection of national interests, public order, maritime safety, and marine ecosystems, involving 45 core missions and multiple administrations.

🌊 France’s Mediterranean shores remain under vigilant protection—ensuring safety, sovereignty, and sustainability at sea.

Source: premar-mediterranee