Week of 22 to 28 June 2026
Legislation / regulation
Decree No. 2026-536 of 25 June 2026 codifying the provisions relating to private recruitment and placement services for seafarers (insurance information requirement from 1 September 2026, administrative and criminal penalties). Order of 23 June 2026 extending the term of office of the supervisory board members of the Seine-axis river-sea port authority (HAROPA).
Case law
Constitutional Council, Decision No. 2026-1208 QPC of 25 June 2026 (Official Journal of 26 June), on referral from the Court of Cassation of 15 April 2026: the Constitutional Council holds that Article L. 5341-11 of the Transport Code, which exempts the maritime pilot from all civil liability towards third parties for damage caused during piloting operations, is consistent with the Constitution. Three-pronged justification: protection of a public service mission characterised by difficulties inherent to piloting activity; no denial of compensation, as third parties retain an ordinary law claim against the shipowner; the pilot retains residual liability towards the shipowner (Articles L. 5341-11(2) and L. 5341-13). A major decision that durably secures the French regime centralising liability on the shipowner.
International
No dated, specifically maritime international development identified for this particular week.
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For assistance with a maritime dispute or transaction, see our page on maritime law and, on this specific topic, our page on marine insurance.
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