EU Council agrees provisional deal to update EMSA’s mandate, enhancing maritime safety, pollution response, and future security challenges
EU moves to modernise maritime safety agency mandate
The Council and European Parliament have reached a provisional political agreement to update the mandate of the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA), aiming to make the agency more adaptable to future challenges.
EMSA, established in 2002, plays a key role in supporting member states with maritime safety, pollution control, environmental protection, and maritime surveillance. The revised mandate will better reflect EMSA’s growing responsibilities in areas including decarbonisation, digitalisation, and emerging threats such as cyber security and hybrid risks.
Expanded powers and resources to meet evolving needs
The agreement provides a legal basis for EMSA to offer technical, operational, and scientific assistance to member states and the European Commission. It also allows EMSA to take on additional tasks as requested, ensuring flexibility to address new developments in the maritime sector.
The update includes provisions to ensure the agency has adequate financial and human resources to meet these expanded responsibilities.
Next steps for formal adoption
The provisional agreement now awaits formal endorsement from the member states’ representatives in the Council (Coreper) and approval by the European Parliament. Following legal-linguistic revision, the updated mandate will be formally adopted by both institutions.
Background: EMSA’s vital role in EU maritime safety
EMSA was created as part of the Erika II maritime safety package after major maritime incidents in the early 2000s. Based in Lisbon, the agency employs over 290 staff and assists in managing maritime safety, protecting the marine environment, coordinating coast guard functions, and providing digital services.
Maritime transport is critical for the EU, accounting for 75% of external trade and serving island and maritime regions. While maritime safety is high, more than 2,000 accidents and incidents are still reported annually, underscoring the importance of EMSA’s continued support and modernisation.
Source: Press Release
