In the framework of a series of events currently taking place at the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (Farnesina), the Directorate-General for Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations of the European Commission (DG ECHO) launched the new “Prevention, Preparedness and Response to natural and man-made disasters in the EU Southern Neighbourhood countries – PPRD Mediterranean” programme.

PPRD-Med will focus on building sustainable capacities of Partner Countries’ civil protection institutions for disaster risk prevention, preparedness and response to disasters at sub-regional and regional level. It will strengthen interlinkages between all relevant governmental actors, civil society stakeholders, and the scientific community, promoting a national inclusive approach to disaster prevention, preparedness and response. The programme will enhance regional and sub-regional coordination, institutional cooperation and operational collaboration between the Southern Neighbourhood countries and with the Union Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM).

Additionally, two other initiatives were launched: a multi-country study to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the disaster risk landscape and capacity to respond (2.4M euros), and an external technical on-site assistance (OSA) (2.2M euros). The multi-country study will analyze the disaster risk landscape and capabilities of the targeted regions, helping to define priorities for future actions, programmes, and partnerships. The OSA will provide civil protection technical assistance to address obstacles and difficulties encountered by national authorities, participants and stakeholders.