19/05/2022 (Agence Europe) – On Thursday 19 May, the European Commission launched an infringement proceeding against Spain and Bulgaria for failure to properly implement Directive 2014/89/EU on maritime spatial planning. Maritime spatial planning aims to organise human activities in maritime areas to achieve various ecological, economic and social objectives (sustainable blue economy, sustainable use of marine resources, conservation of marine ecosystems). The Directive required coastal Member States to develop MSP plans by 31 March 2021 at the latest and to communicate copies of these plans to the Commission and the other Member States concerned within 3 months of their publication (see EUROPE 12944/31). In the absence of a satisfactory response, the Commission may decide to issue reasoned opinions. (LC)