Citizens' Panel on Preparedness

Building a resilient Europe

Europe's ability to cope with future crises—such as climate disasters, pandemics, or geopolitical challenges—depends on strong population preparedness.

This is why the European Commission initiated its EU Preparedness Union Strategy, emphasising the crucial role of citizens and local organisations in building resilient societies.

In spring 2026, 150 randomly selected citizens from all 27 EU Member States gathered in a panel to deliberate the key questions:

How can all European citizens be empowered and better prepared for crises?
How do we ensure that the actions and initiatives of the EU Preparedness Union Strategy are inclusive, effective, and respond to the needs of all citizens?

From deliberation to recommendations

The panel consisted of three sessions where participants shared their experiences, ideas, and perspectives on preparedness, contributing valuable input for the implementation of the EU Preparedness Union Strategy.

Through structured discussions, participants explored initiatives like citizens’ risk awareness, risk communication, and education strategies, aimed at strengthening preparedness across the continent.

Discussions were supported by experts, facilitators, and interpreters to ensure comprehensive understanding and collaboration. By the end, a collective vision and set of priorities were formulated and submitted to the European Commission, aiming to foster inclusive, meaningful, and effective actions that resonate with citizens' needs.

Timeline

The European Citizens’ Panel on Preparedness took place over three weekends between March and May 2026.

20-22 March
Session 1 - Brussels
- Introduction to the Preparedness topic.
- Exchange of first ideas that participants find most promising.
  Recordings: 20/03/2026 | 22/03/2026
24-26 April
Session 2 - online
- Stocktaking of Session 1 and development of ideas by theme and topic.
- First phase of developing recommendations.
  Recordings: 24/04/2026 | 26/04/2026
22-24 May
Closing Session - Brussels
- Drawing conclusions of debates and recommendations to the European Commission.
- Explanation of next steps – impact on policymaking.
  Recordings: 22/05/2026 | 24/05/2026

Preparedness: Europe's collective responsibility

With crises becoming more frequent and intense, it is vital that the EU and Europeans are equipped to prepare, adapt, and respond effectively.

Preparedness involves measures to anticipate crises, including early action, understanding potential risks, and collaborating to mitigate impacts.

By fostering awareness and cooperation between civilian, governmental, and private sectors, Europe can bolster its resilience in the face of crises.

French Civil Protection in action: man in a flooded street pulling a boat with an elderly man on board. — © French Civil Protection

The panel discussed building a culture of preparedness through education and awareness initiatives, empowering citizens to be first responders and active participants in crisis management.

The focus was on strategies that spanned aspects like health, civil society support, and media literacy, addressing the challenges of vulnerable groups and developing leaders across communities.

Incorporating the panel’s input into the EU Preparedness Union Strategy is pivotal in transitioning Europe towards heightened readiness and resilience.

Citizens' Panel on Preparedness

Building a resilient Europe

From deliberation to recommendations

Timeline

Preparedness: Europe's collective responsibility

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