European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has issued a stark warning about the escalating risks of simultaneous disasters across the EU. As climate change intensifies, the frequency and severity of extreme weather events, such as wildfires and floods, are expected to rise, necessitating a shift in how the EU approaches civil protection. This summer alone, the bloc’s civil protection mechanism was activated ten times for wildfires, highlighting the urgent need for better preparedness.
Von der Leyen emphasised that traditional responses to disasters are no longer sufficient. The EU aims to learn from each crisis to enhance future readiness and intervention strategies. However, this ambition faces challenges, particularly as member states grapple with budget constraints while discussing the long-term EU budget for 2027-2034.
The call for increased investment in disaster preparedness comes at a time when the EU is experiencing unprecedented climate-related challenges. With over 600,000 hectares burned this year, the need for proactive measures is more pressing than ever. The Commission is advocating for upfront investments, arguing that they are more cost-effective than dealing with the aftermath of disasters.
Moreover, the EU’s strategy is evolving to address not just natural disasters but also hybrid threats, including cyberattacks and infrastructure sabotage. As the landscape of risks changes, the focus is shifting from merely responding to disasters to preventing them, ensuring that communities are better equipped to handle emergencies in the future.
Source: Euronews
