As wildfires become more frequent and destructive across Europe, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) is calling for prevention to become the cornerstone of EU wildfire policy.

In its latest opinion, the EESC welcomes the European Commission’s approach to integrated wildfire risk management but warns that prevention remains significantly underfunded compared with firefighting. It calls for a structural shift towards long-term prevention and preparedness.

‘Wildfires are no longer a seasonal challenge confined to southern Europe, they are a European civil protection emergency. Prevention must become our first line of defence, backed by a specific EU budget, professional training and a truly integrated European strategy. The cost of inaction will be measured in lives, biodiversity loss and the future of our rural areas,’ said the rapporteur of the opinion Luís Mira.

The Committee proposes a specific European wildfire prevention fund under the next multiannual financial framework, separate from the common agricultural policy, alongside stronger cooperation between Member States and improved professional training.

The EESC also highlights the crucial role of active land management. Maintaining viable agricultural, livestock and forestry activities can help prevent land abandonment, reduce fuel accumulation and lower wildfire risks. Farmers, foresters, local authorities and rural communities should therefore be closely involved in prevention strategies.

The opinion also advocates greater use of innovative technologies and dual-use infrastructure, backed by adequate long-term financing. (ks)