Greece referred to EU court for lacking maritime spatial planning
Greece was referred to the European Union’s Court of Justice by the Commission on Thursday for its failure to implement the guidelines concerning maritime spatial planning.
Directive EU 2014/89, a crucial component of the European Green Deal, establishes a unified approach for member-states to organize human activities in their maritime areas, fostering a sustainable blue economy, responsible marine resource utilization, and preserving marine ecosystems.
Despite the directive’s mandate for coastal EU states to submit maritime spatial plans by March 31, 2021, Greece has not. Following a formal notice in December 2021 and a reasoned opinion in April 2023, the Commission has escalated the matter.
The case against Bulgaria, for a similar infringement, has been closed after the timely submission of their maritime spatial plan in August demonstrating compliance with EU regulations.
