Preparedness is Europe’s shield against future crises such as climate and environmental disasters, geopolitical instability, pandemics or cyber threats.
The European Commission has invited citizens to reflect on awareness of risks and how to prepare for a crisis, both from a personal perspective and from the point of view of the community.
49% of European citizens do not feel well-informed about disaster risks.
68% of European citizens do not feel prepared to face emergencies, with vulnerable groups being disproportionately affected.
As Europe is facing more intense and more frequent disasters than ever, it is crucial that the EU and Europeans are ready to anticipate, prepare, adapt, and respond effectively.
Preparedness is about anticipating crises and taking practical steps before disasters strike. It involves taking action early, learning about possible risks, and working together to mitigate their impact.
Think about this, for example:
Do you feel prepared to face a potential crisis?
Does your local community have a support network for vulnerable citizens?
Population preparedness implies that citizens play an essential role in building resilient societies. Citizens are required to become active participants in crisis readiness and response, and this involvement must reach all parts of society.
Population preparedness is a shared responsibility. Public authorities, media, educational institutions, youth and civil society organisations, social partners, businesses, local networks, and citizens from an early age all play a vital role.
This is why the European Commission would like as many European citizens as possible to have their say on how the EU can ensure that policies and actions are inclusive, effective, and aligned with the needs of citizens.
Join the debate, publish ideas, share views, and discuss with others on topics related to population preparedness here.
Healthy.mt will closely follow the ideas shared.
15.05.2026.
