Countries strengthen crisis plans as Europe steps up disaster readiness

Main points

• At least 18 countries are highlighted for emergency preparedness initiatives in 2026.
• The Netherlands and Finland are strengthening household readiness and emergency warnings.
• The EU's We Act as One campaign covers seven countries through December 2026.

At least 18 countries have been highlighted in a World Visualized compilation of emergency preparedness initiatives in 2026, reflecting growing efforts to protect populations against disasters and disruptions to essential services.

The measures range from public awareness campaigns and updated emergency guidance to civil defence planning and new security strategies.

In Europe, the Netherlands launched a new phase of its Denk vooruit (Think Ahead) campaign on October 12, encouraging households to prepare for at least 72 hours without electricity, running water or internet access.

The Dutch government said more than four in 10 residents had already taken steps to prepare for such disruptions, including assembling emergency kits or making arrangements with family and neighbours.

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Finland has also strengthened its emergency systems. Its government announced plans to introduce FI-Alert, a mobile warning system designed to deliver faster, location-specific alerts during emergencies. Finnish authorities also recommend keeping enough food, water and essential supplies at home for at least three days.

The European Commission has expanded public awareness efforts through its We Act as One campaign, launched in September and running until December 2026.

The initiative covers Bulgaria, Croatia, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Poland and Romania. It highlights cooperation between emergency responders and the European Union's role in preparing for and responding to disasters.

Outside Europe, Singapore has continued community emergency exercises covering threats beyond fires, including hazardous material incidents and natural disasters. Japan also maintains extensive disaster preparedness systems because of its exposure to earthquakes, tsunamis and severe weather.

The broader push comes amid growing concern about extreme weather, geopolitical tensions and threats to critical infrastructure.

The European Commission's Preparedness Union Strategy, adopted in March 2025, calls for stronger coordination between governments, businesses and citizens to respond to a wide range of emergencies.

On October 23, the Commission said the EU Civil Protection Mechanism had been activated more than 900 times since its establishment in 2001, helping countries respond to floods, wildfires, earthquakes and other disasters.

The initiatives show how governments are increasingly treating emergency preparedness as a shared responsibility, with households expected to manage basic needs while emergency services respond to major disruptions.

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