The European Committee of the Regions (CoR) adopted its opinion on the proposed Regulation for the Union Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM) and health emergency preparedness, calling for stronger involvement of local and regional authorities (LRAs) and civil society. The opinion, published on 10 July 2026, urges Member States to fully involve regions in developing, implementing and governing disaster prevention, preparedness and response strategies, including health preparedness and cross-border plans, with adequate resources under subsidiarity and multilevel governance.
The CoR finds that the earmarked EUR 10.7 billion over seven years, shared with health emergency preparedness, may be insufficient. It stresses that LRAs, as first responders, must get predictable, accessible, ring-fenced funding. The opinion also calls on Member States to involve and support NGOs and local civil society in disaster strategies, and emphasises the imperative to involve LRAs in preparing, implementing and evaluating national regional partnership plans.
The CoR reiterates the need to strengthen the UCPM with faster mobilisation of local/regional modules, streamlined accreditation, and better coordination with emergency services. It stresses the key role of volunteers and NGOs, underlining the importance of a framework for structured interaction between LRAs, emergency services, and civil society, involving them as formal strategic partners with influence, resources and long-term support.
Stakeholder impact - Local and regional authorities: Would gain a stronger institutional role in all phases of disaster management, with potential for dedicated funding, but may face increased administrative responsibilities. - EU institutions and Member States: The call for ring-fenced funding and multilevel governance could shift budget priorities and require new coordination mechanisms, potentially slowing decision-making. - Civil society organisations and NGOs: Would be formally recognised as strategic partners, gaining influence and resources, but may need to meet new coordination requirements. - EU taxpayers: A larger or ring-fenced budget for LRAs could increase overall EU spending, while improved local preparedness may reduce long-term disaster costs.
Institutional follow-up The opinion will be forwarded to the European Parliament, the Council, and the European Commission for consideration in the ongoing legislative process on the UCPM regulation. The Commission is expected to respond to the CoR's recommendations in its revised proposal.