Dear members of the press,

On behalf of search and rescue (SAR) NGOs, you are cordially invited to attend the event “10 Years of Search and Rescue on the Frontline: Saving Lives, Defending Rights”, hosted by MEPs Estrella Galán and Cecilia Strada at the European Parliament on November 4th, 2025, from 6:30 to 8:30 PM.

Every day, lives are at risk in the Mediterranean Sea. Marking a decade of continuous operations at sea, representatives of SAR NGOs, together with survivors and experts, will reflect on the realities of maritime rescue, the erosion of humanitarian spaces, and the urgent imperative for political change. Through a series of contributions, the discussion will address the history of the Civil Fleet over ten years of maritime solidarity, the perspectives of rescued people thanks to their testimonies, the consequences of European externalization policies on people on the move and humanitarian work at sea, and the advocacy efforts and strategic litigation undertaken by SAR NGOs.

The event will conclude with a Q&A session, encouraging open debate and participation from the audience. You may find the complete programme attached.

We would be pleased by your presence at this important discussion, which brings together key voices from civil society, humanitarian organizations, and survivors to mark ten years of solidarity and commitment to saving lives at sea.

Please confirm your attendance by registering at the following link: 10 Years of SAR on the Frontline

If you are unable to attend in person and would like to follow the event online, please write to press@sos-humanity.org to receive the link

In addition, a side initiative called “Stage of Survivors” will take place in the early afternoon. The session will provide a space for people who have survived detention centres to share their testimonies and reflections on human rights violations against people on the move in Libya. Further information will be communicated soon.

Kind regards,

EMERGENCY

Médecins Sans Frontières

Mediterranea Saving Humans

Open Arms

SOS Humanity

SOS MEDITERRANEE

Sea-Watch