OA30357 Integrated Crisis and Disaster Management in the European Union: From Local Preparedness to Global Security Challenges

Abstract Issue/Problem In recent years, the European Union has faced an expanding spectrum of crises, including natural disasters, technological accidents, and complex man-made threats such as terrorism and CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear) incidents. The aim of this round table discussion is to examine the EU’s integrated crisis and disaster management framework, focusing on its development, implementation, and effectiveness at both local and supranational levels. Methodology The round table will present a comparative analysis of EU civil protection mechanisms, official policy documents (such as the Union Civil Protection Mechanism, rescEU, and the EU Security Union Strategy), and selected case studies of local preparedness across various settings. Results The round table will focus on cross-border coordination, preventive planning, and community engagement. A number of best practices as well as ongoing challenges in interagency communication, resource allocation and training will be presented in terms of evacuation planning, wildfire management, and preparedness for CBRN incidents. Lessons The round table will conclude that a resilient and secure civil protection system in the EU requires continued investment in multilevel coordination, integration of local capabilities into EU-wide mechanisms, and enhanced public awareness. Of particular importance is the role of healthcare professionals, who must respond swiftly and effectively in mass casualty and public health emergency scenarios. Systematic and specialized training of medical and nursing staff is a critical pillar for effective crisis management and the protection of public health at the European level. Topic Civil protection, EU crisis management, disaster preparedness, terrorism, CBRN, nursing roles in disaster response, preventive evacuation, community resilience