One hundred and fifty citizens from all European Union member states convened online from April 24 to 26 for the second session of the European Citizens’ Panel on Preparedness. The discussions aim to generate tangible proposals detailing how EU populations can enhance their readiness for future crises and shocks. The objective is to ensure that actions taken under the EU preparedness union strategy are both inclusive and directly responsive to the needs of its citizens.
Participants are deepening their examination of priorities identified during earlier sessions. Key focus areas include fostering citizen engagement, promoting education and solidarity, ensuring inclusion, maintaining the integrity of communication—particularly combating disinformation—and enhancing overall crisis management across Europe. The delegation included four Bulgarians representing Sofia, Burgas, Isperih, and Reberkovo.
Speaking to BTA, Antoaneta Petkova, a participant from Reberkovo, expressed hope that the group, which includes representatives from Germany, Italy, and Czechia, would continue to debate proposals such as the implementation of comprehensive educational training for all ages, covering both theoretical knowledge and practical response skills. Petkova added that four additional concepts related to disaster and crisis response are also slated for discussion. The panel’s work underscores a commitment to building resilient communities.
The sessions provide a platform for diverse voices to shape policy, ensuring that future EU preparedness strategies are comprehensive and deeply rooted in citizen experience. The plenary session proceedings are available for live viewing on the panel’s official website.
Topics: #citizens #preparedness #bulgarians
