The European Commission on Wednesday issued new guidance urging citizens across the European Union to prepare for emergencies by stockpiling at least 72 hours' worth of food, water, and essential supplies. The recommendation comes amid escalating geopolitical risks, including the ongoing war in Ukraine, increasing sabotage threats, and concerns about cyberattacks and infrastructure vulnerability.
The EU's 18-page European Preparedness Union Strategy outlines a sweeping initiative aimed at fostering what the Commission called a "culture of preparedness and resilience." The document warns of a "new reality marred with risk and uncertainty," citing the destabilizing effects of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, rising global tensions, and emerging threats to critical systems.
"New realities require a new level of preparedness in Europe," said Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, in a statement accompanying the release. "Our citizens, our Member States, and our businesses need the right tools to act both to prevent crises and to react swiftly when a disaster hits."
The guidance includes recommendations for governments to strengthen early warning systems, ensure continuity of healthcare and water supplies, and promote psychological resilience among civilians. Among its most direct public-facing measures, the Commission recommends that all households maintain supplies sufficient to support three days of self-sufficiency, citing that "the initial period is the most critical" during disruptions.
Hadja Lahbib, the European Commissioner for preparedness and crisis management, emphasized that the risks vary across member states-from floods and wildfires to potential armed conflict-but that all Europeans must adjust to a more volatile environment. "Ready for anything-this must be our new European way of life," Lahbib posted on X.
The strategy follows similar steps by individual nations. In June 2023, Germany updated its Framework Directive for Overall Defense, a national contingency plan for conflict scenarios. At the time, German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said the changes were necessary for her country to arm itself better in the face of Russian aggression.
The EU's new plan includes proposals to integrate preparedness education into school curricula, including training students on how to spot and resist disinformation. In a social media video accompanying Wednesday's rollout, Lahbib listed essential items citizens should keep on hand for a 72-hour emergency period: non-perishable food, water, medications, a flashlight, radio, power bank, cash, and basic hygiene supplies.
