On 11–12 March 2026, the European Fisheries Control Agency (EFCA) and the Italian Coast Guard, under the Italian Chairmanship of the European Coast Guard Functions Forum (ECGFF), jointly organised a workshop in Chioggia, Italy on the implementation of Multipurpose Maritime Operations (MMOs) and the use of innovative technologies in fisheries control activities.
The event brought together representatives from national authorities responsible for coast guard functions, alongside the EU agencies cooperating in this field: EFCA, the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) and the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex). The workshop provided a platform for experts to exchange operational experience and discuss how emerging technologies can support fisheries control and broader maritime surveillance activities.
From technological capabilities to operational implementation
Since 2021, EFCA and the ECGFF have jointly organised a series of thematic workshops dedicated to the role of innovative technologies in coast guard functions, with a particular focus on fisheries monitoring, control and surveillance. Earlier editions explored available technologies, their evidentiary use, and their suitability for operational purposes.
Building on these discussions, the 2026 workshop focused on the practical implementation of technologies within Multipurpose Maritime Operations. MMOs allow national authorities to address several coast guard functions simultaneously, combining activities such as fisheries control, maritime safety, environmental protection and law enforcement through coordinated operational frameworks.
Sharing operational experiences and technological developments
Throughout the two-day programme, participants reviewed the current state of play of MMOs in Europe and shared operational experiences from Member States. Discussions explored how innovative tools, including geospatial intelligence and emerging surveillance technologies, can enhance the effectiveness of monitoring, control and inspection activities at sea.
Participants also examined potential challenges linked to the integration of new technologies into operational settings, identifying areas where innovation could bring added value to future maritime operations.
Strengthening cooperation across the European coast guard community
The workshop reaffirmed the importance of cooperation between national authorities and EU agencies in addressing evolving maritime challenges. By bringing together operational practitioners, technical experts and policymakers, the event contributed to strengthening cross-sector and cross-border cooperation within the European coast guard community.
Through initiatives such as this workshop, EFCA and its partners continue to support the development of more coordinated and effective maritime operations across Europe.
