On March 7, 2025, the official launch event of the PRE_SAFE project took place in Nyíregyháza, bringing together key stakeholders and the press to discuss strengthening disaster prevention efforts in the “four-border” region. The project aims to enhance cross-border cooperation among voluntary disaster management organizations. This collaboration will help protect local communities, infrastructure, and the natural environment.
The project runs from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2026, and is co-financed by the European Union, with a total budget of €850,409.48, of which €765,368.52 is EU funding. The initiative is led by the Research Institute for National Strategy (NSKI), Hungary, in partnership with the Municipality of Tisou, Čierna nad Tisou, Slovakia; Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg County Fire Association, Nyíregyháza, Hungary; Multisalva Association, Satu Mare, Romania; Volunteer Fire Department of Dercen Parish, Zakarpattia, Ukraine; and Velika Dobrony Regional Development Civil Organization, Zakarpattia, Ukraine.
At the launch event, project leaders, including Capó György (Project Manager), welcomed attendees, while Szász Jenő (President of NSKI) emphasized the importance of international cooperation in the fight against disasters. Special attention was given to the role of the Hungarian Firefighters’ Association and the need to prevent rather than just respond to fires and disasters. The event also featured a presentation of the project’s objectives and activities, focusing on enhancing the preparedness and response capabilities of disaster management organizations across borders.
The project will implement a range of activities, including training sessions, cross-border collaboration exercises, and the development of policy recommendations to improve disaster resilience in the region. It marks a key milestone in improving the region’s disaster resilience, backed by European Union support to ensure sustainable and professional cross-border cooperation.
