BRUSSELS — As Europe faces more frequent and complex crises — from extreme weather and pandemics to cyberattacks and geopolitical instability — the European Union is turning to its citizens for input on how best to prepare. The European Commission has launched an online debate on preparedness through the Citizens’ Engagement Platform, inviting residents across the 27-nation bloc to share views on awareness, resilience and community readiness.
The online debate runs January–May 2026, feeding into a European Citizens’ Panel in March–May, which will debate recommendations and submit them to the Commission for follow-up action later in 2026 and early 2027.
Alarming gaps in preparedness awareness
According to figures published on the platform:
• 49% of European citizens say they are not well-informed about disaster risks.
• 68% do not feel prepared to face emergencies, with particularly low confidence among vulnerable groups.
These findings mirror broader EU surveys showing that at least two-thirds of Europeans want more information on how to prepare for disasters, but many struggle to find relevant guidance from authorities.
Diverse experiences across Europe
Preparedness levels vary significantly by country. In a recent survey, confidence in being prepared for climate-related disasters ranged from about 25% in Malta to 65% in Slovenia, with Southern and Mediterranean countries like Portugal and Spain also reporting low perceived readiness.
Moreover, fewer than half of EU citizens say they know what to do in the event of a disaster — a gap that policymakers warn could worsen outcomes when crisis strikes.
EU preparedness strategy and public guidance
The online debate is part of a wider push under the EU Preparedness Union Strategy — an initiative designed to boost Europe’s capacity to anticipate and respond to a wide range of threats.
The strategy emphasizes an all-hazards approach and enhanced coordination among national emergency services, civil society, businesses and citizens.
In March 2025, the Commission urged citizens to stockpile sufficient food, water, medicine and other essentials to last at least 72 hours in a crisis as part of improving individual and community resilience.
The call for “72-hour kits” reflects EU concerns about the potential disruption of supply chains, infrastructure or public services during emergencies.
Role of citizen dialogue
The Citizens’ Engagement Platform is central to this democratic effort. It allows Europeans to publish ideas, comment on others’ contributions and endorse proposals, with inputs channelled into the deliberative Citizens’ Panel.
The debate underscores a shift in EU policymaking — from top-down decisions to participatory input — especially on issues that affect public safety and health.
By placing citizens at the heart of the discussion, Brussels aims to ensure that policies on emergency preparedness are both effective and aligned with citizens’ needs.
What’s at stake
Officials argue that improved preparedness can limit loss of life, reduce economic damage and enhance social cohesion when disasters occur. But the data suggests that significant gaps remain in public awareness and readiness — gaps that could be costly if not addressed.
With participation in the debate continuing through spring, EU policymakers are watching closely to see what citizens identify as the most urgent priorities — from communication and education to investment in community networks and infrastructure resilience.
Have your say and have an impact on policy
