Vallfirest is proud to have participated in the EUROMED pilot workshop, a key event organized by the ONPC of Tunisia, DG ECHO, and the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM). This meeting brought together experts from various countries to discuss strategies against wildfires in the region.
Union Civil Protection Mechanism
The Union Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM), established by the European Union in 2001, promotes cooperation in civil protection among member states and associated countries. This mechanism facilitates the exchange of resources and best practices, consolidating disaster response capabilities.
Union for the Mediterranean
The Union for the Mediterranean, founded fifteen years ago, aims to transform the region into an area of peace and cooperation. Civil protection is fundamental to regional stability. Recently, the UfM approved the principle of a Mediterranean Civil Protection Framework to strengthen efforts in the region.
Wildfire Management in the Mediterranean
The EUROMED workshop addressed the growing threat of wildfires, exacerbated by climate change. Discussions focused on cross-border management strategies for the 2024 fire season, supported by the European Commission.
Key Presentations and Discussions
Vallfirest presented its innovations in fire management equipment and safety. Notable presentations included:
- Tunisia and Algeria: Fire management strategies.
- DG ECHO: Role of the Emergency Response Coordination Centre.
- Nîmes Métropole: Euro-Mediterranean Centre on Wildfires.
- Morocco: Oasis fire management.
- Lebanon: National Early Warning Platform.
- Space technologies and early detection systems.
- Vallfirest: Innovations in fire management equipment.
The event also included decision-making workshops, demonstrations, and meetings with industry professionals.
Key Recommendations and Conclusions
The workshop concluded with recommendations to enhance regional cooperation, share data, organize exchange missions, and develop interoperability criteria. The need to establish a regional crisis management center in Tunisia was highlighted.
Looking Ahead
The success of the workshop underscores the importance of continuous collaboration and early planning for future fire seasons. At Vallfirest, we are committed to these efforts to strengthen the resilience of Mediterranean communities against natural disasters.
We thank the organizers, participants, and partners for their collaboration. Together, we can ensure a safer future for the Mediterranean region.
