Areas affected by heavy rainfall can apply for EU support

The president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, has said that the areas in western Europe affected by severe weather and flooding are entitled to assistance from the European Civil Protection Mechanism, rescEU. Von der Leyen also said that her thoughts were with the victims in Luxembourg, Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands.

"The EU is ready to help", Von der Leyen wrote.

RescEU is a funding mechanism of the European Union that deals with 'civil disasters. Assistance can include relief supplies, experts, civil protection teams and specialised equipment, with the European Commission deciding on the deployment of resources. In addition to improving the response capacity of member states, the Mechanism co-ordinates, complements and supports initiatives of EU Member States in case of civil disasters.

The Mechanism entered into force in March 2019, following a number of disasters inside and outside the EU. The Commission stated that both the EU and its member states need to do more to combat disasters and respond appropriately. Given the increase of disasters related to climate change, countries themselves also need to be better prepare in practical and policy terms.
 

source: commonspace.eu with agencies
photo: The Erftstadt-Blessem, Germany. Rescuers have been rushing today (16 July) to help people trapped in their homes in the town of Erftstadt, southwest of Cologne. Regional authorities said several people had died after their houses collapsed., Aerial pictures show what appears to be a giant sinkhole; Rhein-Erft-Kreis municipality

Related articles

Editor's choice
News
Borrell tells the European Parliament that the situation in Afghanistan was critical, but the EU will remain engaged

Borrell tells the European Parliament that the situation in Afghanistan was critical, but the EU will remain engaged

Borrell underlined that the European Union will make every effort to support the peace process and to remain a committed partner to the Afghan people. "Of course, we will have to take into account the evolving situation, but disengagement is not an option.  We are clear on that: there is no alternative to a negotiated political settlement, through inclusive peace talks.
Editor's choice
News
Putin makes first visit to Kursk since Russia recaptured region

Putin makes first visit to Kursk since Russia recaptured region

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Kursk for the first time since Moscow claimed to have completely recaptured the region following a surprise incursion by Ukrainian forces last year, Russian state news agency TASS reported on Wednesday. Putin met with municipal leaders in the city of Kurchatov and visited the Kursk nuclear power plant, which is currently under construction, the Kremlin said, according to TASS.

Popular

Editor's choice
News
Putin makes first visit to Kursk since Russia recaptured region

Putin makes first visit to Kursk since Russia recaptured region

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Kursk for the first time since Moscow claimed to have completely recaptured the region following a surprise incursion by Ukrainian forces last year, Russian state news agency TASS reported on Wednesday. Putin met with municipal leaders in the city of Kurchatov and visited the Kursk nuclear power plant, which is currently under construction, the Kremlin said, according to TASS.