DEVELOPMENT OF THE EUROPEAN CIVIL PROTECTION TRAINING AND EXERCISE PROGRAMME

Abstract

Since 2004 the civil protection training and exercise programme has been an integral component of the Union Civil Protection Mechanism. The aim of the programme is to enhance the coordination, compatibility and complementarity of the civil protection teams and experts, and to support the exchange of knowledge and experience between all the stakeholders in international rescue missions. Rapid changes within the Mechanism, which is adapting to the recent societal changes and new risks related to climate change, have also expanded the training programme itself. In 2021 new EU legislation established the Civil Protection Knowledge Network, which builds on existing programmes and connects them in order to enhance EU and Member States’ capabilities for prevention, preparedness and disaster response. Slovenia has been actively contributing to the successful implementation of the training and exercise programme for more than 10 years.