Study on Risk Governance in Europe: Challenges, Key Actors, and Future

The study explores in detail the risks associated with hydrometeorological events such as floods, storms, heatwaves, droughts, and severe snowfalls, as well as the technological risks that can be triggered by these phenomena. It highlights how climate change is exacerbating these risks, with projections suggesting an increase in the frequency and severity of events like coastal flooding and droughts across Europe. Additionally, the study addresses "natech" events, where natural disasters such as earthquakes or storms can trigger severe technological accidents, like chemical spills or failures in critical infrastructure.

The report identifies several key challenges in disaster governance across Europe, due to the diversity in governmental structures, risk perceptions, and response capacities among different countries. Through a detailed analysis, it explores the obstacles to creating a standardized approach to disaster management in Europe. These challenges include cultural differences, varied historical experiences with disasters, and inequalities in vulnerability and response capacity across different regions.

Through a survey conducted with key actors within the COVALEX project, the study reveals predominant concerns and areas of interest for the future. The results show that public authorities are particularly concerned with risks such as floods, torrential rains, and storms, while phenomena like heatwaves, droughts, and wildfires are expected to become increasingly relevant over the next 10 years. Participants also expressed the need to strengthen international collaboration, share best practices, and develop more robust disaster governance strategies.

The report emphasizes the importance of a multisectoral approach to disaster governance, involving a wide range of actors, from local authorities to non-governmental organizations, the private sector, and academia. It highlights the crucial role of critical infrastructure and the need to ensure its resilience in the face of extreme events. The need to improve preparedness through education and training is also underscored, using tools such as simulations, scenario-based exercises, and knowledge exchange at the European level.

The report concludes with an exploration of the needs and expectations of COVALEX stakeholders. Study participants emphasized the importance of creating a network that facilitates the exchange of best practices, promotes cross-sector collaboration, and provides access to educational resources and practical tools. They also expressed particular interest in developing disaster governance strategies that are adaptable to specific local contexts, reflecting the diversity of risks and vulnerabilities across Europe.