Reform of the EU Civil Protection Mechanism would strengthen crisis preparedness

On 16 July, the European Commission put forward a proposal for a reform of the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. The reform is one of the key measures to implement the EU Preparedness Union Strategy. The Government informed Parliament of the proposal by submitting a Union communication on 13 November.

The Commission proposes that funding for health emergency preparedness and response be integrated into the Civil Protection Mechanism. In addition, a cross-sectoral crisis coordination hub would be established in connection with the current Emergency Response Coordination Centre (ERCC). New elements related to the implementation of the Preparedness Union Strategy would include, in particular, promotion of civil-military cooperation and measures supporting population preparedness.

The aim is to improve cooperation between the EU and the Member States in preventing, preparing for and responding to disasters both inside and outside the Union. Another aim is to better cover cross-sectoral crises, such as serious cross-border threats to health.

The proposal responds to increasingly complex crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine. Preparing for and responding to such crises demands a comprehensive and integrated approach.

Reform related to the EU's new financial framework

The proposal to reform the Civil Protection Mechanism is also related to the Commission's proposal for the EU’s new Multiannual Financial Framework for 2028–2034. The Commission proposes that funding for the mechanism be significantly increased compared with the 2021–2027 period. However, this funding would also cover parts of health security and broader preparedness. 

Finland's share depends on national decisions and how actively Finland applies for funding for different measures. During the current period, Finland has benefited significantly from the funding of the mechanism.

Proposal supports Finland's objectives

The Government welcomes the proposal in principle. The Civil Protection Mechanism should be able to better respond to the changes in the security environment. The proposed new elements support Finland's views and the objectives related to strengthening crisis preparedness.

The Government emphasises that the responsibility for developing national security, preparedness and rescue services rests with the Member States, and the Commission's actions are complementary. Finland's geographical location and threat environment should be taken into account in the allocation of future funding.

Civil Protection Mechanism helps countries faced with overwhelming crises 

The EU Civil Protection Mechanism aims to strengthen cooperation between European countries and to facilitate the coordination of civil protection in the prevention of natural and human-induced disasters, preparedness and response.

Any country can request assistance via the mechanism if the scale of an emergency or disaster exceeds their response capacity. The assistance is based on national resources made available by the participating states and on joint EU-level capacities. EU funding can be sought to upgrade these resources.

The mechanism has been in place since 2014. In addition to the EU Member States, ten other countries, including Norway and Iceland, participate in its activities.

Inquiries:
Sini Hangaslammi, Chief Specialist, tel. +358 295 488 474, [email protected]