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We reviewed 194 studies concerning POPs in Mediterranean basin; 38% were related to the origin and emission sources, as well as their physico-chemical properties and transport processes and 62% were related to ∑ 10-26 PAHs and ∑ 7-41 PCBs distribution in Mediterranean basin. Only 57% of Mediterranean countries with coasts on the Mediterranean Sea, have a published research papers about POPs. As results of the survey study: Italy, France, Spain and Egypt were identified as the main polluted Mediterranean countries. The highest concentrations were reported at areas influenced by harbor and industrial activities as the case of Gulf of Taranto (Italy), Lazaret Bay (France) and Napels Bay (Italy). However, lack of data is available for some area. We can suggest that Mediterranean Sea is in critical situation and some measures whether on global and regional scale were recommended in order to protect it and save the natural resources for the future generations. Image 1 • 194 studies concerning POPs in Mediterranean basin were reviewed. • 57% of Mediterranean countries have a published research papers about POPs. • Italy, France, Spain and Egypt are as the main polluted countries by PAHs and PCBs. • The harbor and industrial coastal areas affect significantly the Mediterranean Sea. • Urgent environmental measures are needed to protect the Mediterranean Sea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]