The European Union is stepping up its game, embracing a preparedness strategy that would make any survivalist proud. The EU is now calling upon its 450 million citizens to stockpile essentials like food and water to last for at least 72 hours. This initiative is driven by looming threats, including war, cyberattacks, dreaded climate change, and potential pandemics.
According to the Associated Press, the EU’s move comes amid calls, especially from past U.S. leadership, for Europe to take charge of its own security.
Preparedness and Crisis Management Commissioner Hadja Lahbib didn’t hold back, stating, “Today’s threats facing Europe are more complex than ever, and they are all interconnected” as she presented a forward-looking disaster management strategy.
While the Commission insists it’s not trying to spread panic, it has been vocal about perceived threats like ‘Global warming’ and an aggressive Russia. Commissioner Lahbib emphasized the need for citizens to have a quick 72-hour supply of essentials, which might seem brief to seasoned preppers, but is a start. She advised stockpiling food, water, flashlights, identification papers, medicine, and shortwave radios.
The Commissioner went further, advocating for a ‘strategic reserve’ to include critical resources like firefighting planes and equipment for medical, energy, and transport needs. The EU also aims to prepare for chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats. These efforts mirror existing strategies in countries like France, Finland, and Sweden.
