EUROPE DIRECT Epirus, EUROPE DIRECT Peloponnese, EUROPE DIRECT Ionian Islands – Ionian University, and EUROPE DIRECT Ionian Islands – PRAXI Network are organising an online information event focusing on rescEU and the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, and their connection with wildfires. The event will take place on Wednesday, 1 July 2026, at 19:00.
Pre-registration link, required for participation: https://tinyurl.com/3axfxxjn
Greece is affected by devastating forest fires during the summer season, as the combination of prolonged heatwaves, drought, and strong winds creates conditions of extreme risk. In recent years, the problem has intensified significantly. Extreme events, such as the wildfire in Evros, which was described as the largest in European history and destroyed vast areas of land, unfolded within a complex context of environmental insecurity and climate vulnerability. Indicatively, in the summer of 2025 alone, more than 47,000 hectares of land were burned, making it one of the worst years of the last two decades. Historical data show that 3% of wildfires are responsible for 80% of the burned area, while, overall, 17% of forests have burned over the last 24 years. To address this phenomenon, advanced technological tools are now being used, including specialised satellites for forecasting and monitoring, as well as the first integrated fire risk prediction map.
rescEU is the European reserve for crisis and disaster response. It operates as a shared pool of European Union resources, such as firefighting aircraft, helicopters, medical supplies, and generators, ready to be deployed immediately to protect citizens when national capacities are insufficient.
The system strengthens and complements the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, ensuring that solidarity and immediate assistance reach Member States more quickly when natural disasters or crises occur.
The topics to be discussed during the event will focus on the importance of rescEU and the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, the institutional framework, the role of the National Coordination Centre for Operations and Crisis Management (ESKEDIK), and the Hellenic Air Force. The event will offer a substantial overview of the operational dimension of European solidarity and its contribution to safeguarding human life, property, and the natural environment.
Certificates of attendance will be provided electronically upon request.
