Fostering regional cooperation on natural disasters and crisis management in the Mediterranean

This study examines the role of the Union Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM) and the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) in fostering cross-border cooperation and advancing a shared framework for prevention, preparedness, and recovery. By analysing national approaches to disaster risk management (DRM) in countries such as Jordan, Syria, Iraq, Egypt, and Lebanon, the study highlights the Mediterranean’s multidimensional vulnerabilities — from water scarcity and urbanisation to conflict and governance fragility.

The study argues that regional cooperation, technological innovation, and inclusive governance are essential to safeguarding communities and achieving long-term resilience. It calls for a renewed EU–Southern Neighbourhood partnership, leveraging mechanisms like the UCPM and the Pact for the Mediterranean to build a more cohesive and people-centred approach to crisis management.