Search and rescue operations in the Mediterranean and fundamental rights
July 14th, 2025
The European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) recently published the report “Search and Rescue Operations in the Mediterranean and Fundamental Rights”, focusing on search and rescue (SAR) activities carried out by NGOs in the central Mediterranean. The report provides an overview of legal proceedings initiated by EU Member States against these organizations and individual crew members involved in humanitarian operations.
The data reveal a persistent criminalization of solidarity: fines, administrative detentions, investigations, and trials affect those providing rescue, all within a context where search and rescue capacities remain insufficient. This report presents the situation as of 1 June 2025 and contributes to the ongoing European debate on revising legislation related to the facilitation of irregular entry and on strengthening SAR capabilities.
The report is available on the FRA website, accessible here.