Coastal Protection in the Mediterranean Sea: An Overview of International and European Coastal Defense Regulations

Coastal defense is a critical issue worldwide, as coastal erosion caused by both natural and anthropogenic causes poses significant risks to coastal communities and infrastructure. The term coastal defence refers to any activity aimed at protect a coastal area from erosion and/or flooding; examples consist of engineering schemes such as sea walls and embankments. International and European regulations play a fundamental role in guiding coastal defense practices in the Mediterranean Sea, and ensuring sustainable, effective measures, compatible with both human development needs and environmental protection objectives. This document provides an overview of the main international and European regulations relating to coastal defense with a specific focus on the Mediterranean Sea, and aims to highlight the principles, objectives and implementation mechanisms that underpin these frameworks. The document also intends to highlight the importance of collaboration and cooperation at an international and regional level between States in order to effectively respond to the challenges and seize the opportunities associated with the implementation of coastal defense measures.