EENA’s newsletter brings you the latest updates in emergency communications.
In this edition, you can read about cell broadcast implementation in Sweden and testing in Jordan and Thailand, misuse of the emergency alert system in the Philippines, expansion of the 112 system in Uzbekistan, and much more!
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EENA News
That’s a wrap on the EENA 2025 Conference & Exhibition!
Last week, over 700 public safety professionals from across Europe and beyond gathered in Helsinki for the EENA 2025 Conference & Exhibition. The three-day event was packed with forward-looking discussions, from next-generation emergency communications and AI-driven decision support, to media-sharing in 112, proactive crisis management, and the impact of emerging technologies on access to emergency services.
The programme featured inspiring keynotes, insightful sessions, and plenty of opportunities for networking, learning, and collaboration. We also had the privilege of recognising outstanding contributions through the 112 Awards: Dr Hamza al-Kateab and Waad al-Kateab received the Unbreakable Spirit Award, Brian Fontes was honoured with the Career Achievement Award, and Vítor Judícibus received the 112 Change Driver Award. Congratulations to all awardees for their remarkable impact on public safety!
Thank you to all attendees, speakers, and sponsors who helped make this year’s edition such a success! We hope to see you at the next EENA Conference in Riga, 15–17 April 2026!
All the presentations will be available on our Conference website on 18 April.
EENA publishes the first report on Direct-to-Device Emergency Communications in Europe
EENA has published its first report on direct-to-device satellite communications and their potential to enhance emergency services in Europe. The report highlights how smartphones will soon be able to connect directly to satellites in Low Earth Orbit, enabling communication in areas without terrestrial coverage. While uptake in Europe may be limited due to strong mobile networks, the technology could offer important benefits such as improved access to 112 and public warning systems in remote areas, and a reliable fallback when terrestrial networks fail — strengthening the resilience of emergency communications. However, challenges remain, especially around routing emergency calls, ensuring accurate caller location, and meeting legal requirements under Article 109 of the European Electronic Communications Code (EECC). Broader issues like sovereignty and universal service obligations will also need to be addressed. EENA will continue engaging with EU institutions to ensure upcoming legislation, such as the Digital Networks Act and European Space Act, reflect these needs.
EENA publishes a new document on the Optimisation of Procedures for Interventions & Operations
An effective and timely emergency response depends not only on personnel in the field but also on coordinated systems, informed decision-making, and the use of advanced technologies. EENA’s new publication examines how police operations, as well as fire and ambulance services, can be enhanced through better information management, risk anticipation, centralised alert systems, and intelligence-led approaches. The report outlines how integrating real-time data, modern dispatch tools, and emerging technologies such as AI and drones, alongside continuous training and standardised coordination, can significantly strengthen operational effectiveness and improve public safety outcomes.
Emergency communications around the world
Sweden to introduce new cell broadcast warning system
On 10 April 2025, the Swedish government announced the launch of SE Alert, a new public warning system using cell broadcast technology to improve crisis communication. The system, led by the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB) and the Swedish Post and Telecom Agency (PTS), will complement existing channels such as SMS, radio, TV, and the “Hesa Fredrik” siren. SE Alert aims to strengthen Sweden’s emergency preparedness by enabling fast, reliable delivery of critical information to the public during crises. Inspired in part by lessons from Ukraine, the new system will help ensure the population can take timely protective action. MSB will coordinate the implementation, with support from PTS and in collaboration with SOS Alarm and digital infrastructure providers. A full report on the system’s development and use cases is expected by 30 January 2026.
Read more here (Regeringen, in Swedish).
Misuse of emergency alert system for political campaigning condemned in the Philippines
The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) in the Philippines has strongly condemned the misuse of the Emergency Cell Broadcast System (ECBS) for political campaigning ahead of the upcoming elections. The system, intended solely for issuing life-saving alerts during emergencies, was reportedly used to send messages promoting specific candidates in provinces including Masbate and Parañaque City. OCD Administrator Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno warned that such misuse risks undermining public trust in the system and could lead to dangerous complacency during real crises. The OCD confirmed that telecom operators Globe and Smart were not responsible for the political messages and referred the incident to the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) for investigation. The OCD is now working with relevant agencies to identify those responsible and ensure accountability under the law.
Read more here (Manila Bulletin).
Thailand confirms readiness of cell broadcast system for disaster alerts
Thailand’s cell broadcast system is now ready to deliver emergency notifications to both Thai citizens and foreign tourists in the event of natural disasters. The announcement follows successful testing conducted by True Corporation, the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM), the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), and the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society. The testing took place after the 8.2-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar on 28 March, which affected Bangkok and other provinces. DDPM Director-General Passakorn Bunyalak stated that the test met expectations and that the cell broadcast system will play a vital role in enhancing disaster preparedness. He added that the department is developing a Cell Broadcast Entity to allow public agencies to issue alerts directly.
Jordan begins testing their cell broadcast emergency alert system
The Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (TRC) of Jordan has announced the completion of initial technical tests for a new cell broadcast emergency alert system. The first live test was conducted by Zain Jordan, with other mobile operators set to follow soon. The system aims to improve emergency response by delivering location-specific alerts to mobile phones during severe weather, natural disasters, and other critical situations. The TRC emphasised that operators will inform users ahead of test broadcasts to avoid public concern.
Uzbekistan’s unified 112 emergency system now fully operational nationwide
Uzbekistan has completed the nationwide rollout of its unified 112 emergency dispatch system, according to the Ministry of Digital Technologies. The system, launched as part of a directive from President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in 2023, integrates emergency response services from multiple agencies, including the Ministries of Internal Affairs, Emergency Situations, and Health. Initially planned for phased implementation through the end of 2024, the system has been completed ahead of schedule and is now fully operational across all regions. The unified 112 number streamlines emergency call handling and ensures a more coordinated and efficient response nationwide.
Gujarat, India expands 112 emergency helpline statewide
The Gujarat government has announced the statewide rollout of the 112 Emergency Response Support System (ERSS), which integrates police, fire, and ambulance services into a single emergency helpline. Initially launched in seven districts, the system has handled over 14.9 million calls since 2019. To support faster and more coordinated responses, an integrated command and control centre is being established across all districts. As part of the rollout, 500 Jan Rakshak PCR vans will also be deployed. These are specially equipped Police Control Room vehicles used to respond rapidly to emergency calls.
Read more here (Times of India).
Man jailed for over 11,000 nuisance calls to emergency services
A 48-year-old man in Dublin has been sentenced to 16 months in prison for making more than 11,000 nuisance calls to emergency services in 2023, blocking emergency telephone lines for nearly 130 hours. He pleaded guilty to persistently misusing the telecommunications system to cause interference and anxiety. Despite a previous suspended sentence for a hoax emergency call, the individual continued making abusive and silent calls, some exceeding 100 per hour, which significantly disrupted services in parts of Ireland. He was arrested twice after police traced the calls through mobile phone data and cell site analysis. The court heard that the man struggled with alcohol addiction and mental health issues but had shown signs of rehabilitation since being taken into custody. He received a three-year sentence, with the final 20 months suspended on the condition that he enter a bond.