Brussels, 17/12/2013 (Agence Europe) - Although it is not yet a European civil protection force, the European Union now has a strengthened civil protection mechanism based on increased European cooperation and coordination. The new legal instrument will improve the effectiveness and promptness of systems preventing, preparing for and responding to natural and man-made disasters of all kinds within and outside the EU.
On Monday 16 December, during first reading, the Council adopted the new legislation that innovates by providing for risk assessment sharing, a European emergency response capability, and the creation of a reserve of intervention means made available by the member states. The decision was adopted on the fringe of the JHA Council, without debate, as it was no more than a formality. The Parliament had earlier endorsed the agreement negotiated with Council on Tuesday 10 December (see EUROPE 10982). (AN/transl.jl)