Functions of the Maritime Guard of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine in the context of European integration

The article provides a comprehensive analysis of the functional foundations of the Maritime Guard of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine within the framework of the country’s European integration trajectory. The authors explore the key aspects of legal regulation concerning the activities of this structural unit of the SBGSU, which plays a strategic role in ensuring national security and border control at maritime sections of the state border. Special attention is paid to the differentiation of the fundamental concepts of «purpose», «goal», «task», and «function», which are essential for the legal and managerial understanding of the Maritime Guard’s operations. The study emphasizes the changing security environment in the Black Sea region, as well as the increasing importance of border cooperation and integration into European security mechanisms. Authors substantiate the need to revise and clarify the legal status of the Maritime Guard in light of Ukraine’s growing aspirations for EU membership and points to the necessity of harmonizing national legislation with EU law, particularly with the norms regulating the activity of the Frontex agency and border-customs cooperation within the framework of the Schengen acquis. It is underlined that as Ukraine approaches full EU membership, its maritime borders will automatically acquire the status of the European Union’s external borders. This entails the need to strengthen the institutional capacity of the Maritime Guard, improve personnel training systems and technical equipment, and implement joint control standards and measures to counter transnational threats — including illegal migration, smuggling, piracy, and maritime terrorism. Thus, the article aims to outline the strategic directions for reforming the functions of the Maritime Guard of the SBGSU, aimed at ensuring effective protection of maritime borders in accordance with European standards and the demands of the current geopolitical situation. The findings of the study can be applied in the practical activities of border authorities, in legislative development, and in academic and educational fields related to security studies and European integration.