Description
In France, the Maritime Prefect is the State's representative at sea, responsible for maritime safety. This function is entrusted to a general naval officer.
A government delegate, the Maritime Prefect is the Prime Minister's direct representative. vested with general police powers, he or she has authority in all areas of government action at sea, in particular :
- defense of national rights and interests, particularly in areas under French sovereignty or jurisdiction (territorial sea, exclusive economic zone);
- maintaining public order;
- rescue and maritime safety;
- environmental protection;
- combating illegal activities at sea (illegal fishing, drug trafficking, clandestine migration, piracy).
It coordinates the actions of the various government departments at sea, and the deployment of their resources (Navy, Maritime Affairs, Customs, Gendarmerie).
