In the face of increasingly frequent crises and emergencies — from wildfires and floods to pandemics and mass casualty incidents — European Parliament Vice-President Victor Negrescu is calling for the establishment of a common European mechanism for medical equipment and infrastructure, as well as the creation of well-trained rapid response medical teams capable of operating across borders.

In a recent speech delivered in the plenary of the European Parliament, Negrescu stressed the urgency of these measures, recalling a previously proposed initiative for setting up joint European medical teams and a shared infrastructure for rapid crisis intervention — an initiative already adopted by the Parliament but not yet implemented by the European Commission.

”When fires, floods or medical emergencies occur, examples of European solidarity are welcome by everyone. These situations demonstrate that a Union prepared for crises is a necessity. We need concrete, measurable and fair actions for all member states.”

In addition, as the EU’s chief budget negotiator for 2025, Negrescu secured an €8 million increase for the European Civil Protection Mechanism, as well as €3 billion from cohesion funds, which can be used by Central and Eastern European countries affected by disasters.

”We are once again reaching the same conclusions, but now we must make up for lost time. Future crises can strike at any time, anywhere in the Union. Being prepared does not mean inducing panic — it means being responsible and well-informed.”

Referring to recent disasters such as the floods in Valencia, Spain and Southern Romania, the MEP emphasized the need for a unified, swift and solidarity-based European response:

”When a crisis hits — be it fires, floods or medical emergencies — anyone may need help. (…) Today, more than ever, this is not a time for hesitation or panic. It is a time for responsibility and action.”

Victor Negrescu also warned that EU citizens expect clear answers and effective solutions from European institutions, not vague promises: ”Citizens expect solutions, and we are here to deliver them — clearly and unambiguously.”