Ensuring Safe Navigation in the Strait of Messina: Current Issues

Located in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, the Strait of Messina is heavily frequented by ships with very different characteristics and functions. The intersection of longitudinal and transverse flows is a potential source of maritime accidents. This was the case with the collision between the two ships, Patmos and Castillo de Monte Aragon, on March 21, 1985. This accident triggered the maritime authorities to take into account many critical aspects related to navigation safety. A second collision between the passenger ship Segesta Jet and the container ship Susan Bochard on January 15, 2007, highlighted the need to reinforce the control of maritime traffic to ensure the safety of life and goods at sea. The Italian national legal framework has since continued to be strengthened in this respect. After presenting the complexity of this maritime area, we will analyze the regulatory changes introduced over time to reinforce the safety of navigation in the Strait. Finally, by deciphering the governance system applicable to the Strait, we will identify the gradual transformations taking place in the organization, functions, and competences of the authorities involved in the management of maritime navigation safety in the Strait of Messina.