The Prefecture of Saint-Martin and Saint-Barthélemy plays a specific role due to the unique status of these territories:

- the Prefecture, headed by Prefect Vincent Berton, represents the French government and the central administration
- it supervises the application of national laws and regulations, manages public services such as security, immigration, and civil status issues
- it also coordinates the various State administrations present in the territory (police, gendarmerie, customs, etc.)
- it finally plays a key role in crisis management, such as natural disasters such as hurricanes, by coordinating relief and emergency interventions.

In summary, the Prefecture represents the State and ensures compliance with national laws while the Collectivité manages local affairs and has a certain autonomy in its decisions. There is collaboration between these two entities to ensure the proper functioning and development of the island of Saint-Martin.