Strengthening Cooperation, Building Resilience

Brussels, 15 October 2025 – How can Europe respond faster, more effectively, and more united in times of crisis? This was the central question at the first parliamentary evening in Brussels by the Lower Saxony Ministry of the Interior and Sports and INTERSCHUTZ. Policymakers, EU representatives, and civil protection experts came together to discuss joint strategies for tackling cross-border emergencies.

Key focus areas included the impact of climate change, such as floods and wildfires, the consequences of the war in Ukraine, and the EU’s evolving role in building a preventive, fast, and resilient disaster response system.

Inspiring Impulses from Politics, the EU, and Civil Protection

The event featured two keynote speeches and a moderated panel discussion from:

  • Daniela Behrens, Minister of the Interior and Sports of Lower Saxony
  • Maciej Popowski, General Director DG ECHO (European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations)?Tiemo Wölken, Member of the European Parliament?Jörg Eger, THW Commissioner for Bremen and Lower Saxony
  • Dr. Jochen Köckler, CEO, Deutsche Messe AG
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    These shed light on the status quo of European disaster cooperation and highlighted areas where joint action is urgently needed.

    A Call for European Solidarity

    Minister Daniela Behrens stressed the increasing demands on emergency management systems: “The demands on disaster protection and emergency response are increasing in scale, speed, and complexity. We need European cooperation, well-trained professionals, sufficient training capacity, and strong investment in infrastructure and technology.”

    Networking to Strengthen Collaboration

    The event concluded with an informal get-together, offering space for exchange and networking—strengthening the connection between regional expertise and European strategy. A crucial step on the path to a more unified and resilient Europe in the face of growing crises.

    Civil Protection @ INTERSCHUTZ