Italy Faces Lawsuit from EU Commission for Maritime Plan Violations

The European Commission has decided to refer Italy to the Court of Justice of the European Union for failing to implement the Directive on maritime spatial planning (Directive 2014/89/EU). This Directive aims to establish a common approach for EU countries to plan and organize human activities in marine areas sustainably, including developing a sustainable blue economy and conserving marine ecosystems and biodiversity. Italy has not yet drawn up and submitted its maritime spatial plans, despite the deadline of March 31, 2021, leading to the Commission’s decision to take legal action.

Maritime spatial planning is crucial for managing human activities in seas and oceans efficiently and sustainably. The Directive on maritime spatial planning is part of the Integrated Maritime Policy of the EU, promoting sustainable growth of maritime economies, development of marine areas, and the sustainable use of marine resources. It aims to reduce conflicts, create synergies, and foster cooperation between EU countries in activities such as renewable energy development, shipping lane allocation, and laying pipelines and submarine cables.

The Directive on maritime spatial planning requires coastal Member States to develop plans by a set deadline and communicate them to the Commission and other Member States. Italy’s failure to meet these requirements has led to the Commission’s decision to refer the country to the Court of Justice of the European Union. This legal action is essential for ensuring the correct implementation of the Directive and achieving the objectives of the European Green Deal.

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