Greece highlights sea safety and urges EU backing for fishermen

The Hellenic Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (EODY) reports that roughly 380 people drown each year in Greek waters, emphasizing that most incidents occur at sea and predominantly affect men over 60. It outlines preventive measures such as swimming with companions, avoiding alcohol, and constant child supervision.

At the European Parliament, PASOK MEP Sakis Arnaoutoglou questioned the European Commission on concrete support for the maritime sector, calling for immediate compensation, fleet modernisation funding, protection against unfair competition and fair access to waters for coastal and mid‑water fishers, aquaculture producers and island communities.

Both interventions stress the need for practical policies to protect those whose livelihoods and safety depend on the sea.