Understanding cross-sectoral wildfire risk governance: Lessons from mix-method analysis of the wildfire risk governance in Italy, Greece, and Land Brandenburg

This paper aims to enhance understanding of wildfire risk (WFR) governance, by identifying patterns and characteristics of cross-sectoral collaborations, and to inform integrated WFR governance strategies across Europe.The research examines wildfire risk governance systems of two countries (Italy, Greece) and one region (the German federal state of Brandenburg), all participating in the Union Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM) Peer Review Programme. Wildfires are becoming an increasingly severe and complex risk across Europe, driven by climate change, land-use transformations, and socio-economic pressures.

The findings show that wildfire governance networks are broadly cross-sectoral but remain highly centred on civil protection authorities, which play a key coordinating role. While strong cooperation mechanisms exist, the study identifies opportunities to strengthen consultation processes, knowledge-sharing and the integration of scientific expertise. By comparing governance arrangements across diverse institutional settings, the report provides practical insights for policymakers, practitioners and civil protection authorities seeking to develop more integrated, adaptive and resilient approaches to wildfire risk management across Europe.