EENA’s newsletter brings you the latest updates in emergency communications.
In this edition, you can read about EENA taking part in a new EU-funded project, Belgium’s new AI emergency app, Bulgaria’s cell broadcast testing, and much more!
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EENA News
The EENA 2025 Conference & Exhibition is here!
EENA 2025 is kicking off soon! This year’s agenda highlights some of the key challenges and innovations shaping the future of public safety, including:
- The use of AI in PSAPs
- NG112 implementation & caller location advancements
- Public warning systems & next-generation eCall
- European emergency communications regulations & accessibility requirements
- Real-world case studies on emergency response innovation
- The evolving role of call-takers and operational challenges in PSAPs
With new regulations, evolving technologies, and real-world deployments, this year’s discussions will provide insights into the future of emergency response and what’s next for public safety professionals across Europe.
Have you registered yet?
The EENA Conference is just around the corner! Don’t forget to register in advance; please note that on-site registration will include an additional fee. Save your spot (and the extra cost) by registering on time!
The X_HeERO project has officially launched!
This EU-funded project supports Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) across Europe in preparing for Next Generation (NG) eCall, the emergency call system based on 112 and designed for 4G/5G networks. As 2G and 3G networks are phased out, NG eCall ensures continued, secure, and faster communication with emergency services. It also allows for richer data sharing and improved situational awareness in case of road accidents. X_HeERO will further explore how eCall can support vulnerable road users and autonomous vehicles. EENA is contributing by analysing the current landscape, supporting standard adoption, and helping ensure interoperability for a smooth NG eCall rollout.
Emergency communications around the world
Belgium launches AI application in emergency app for deaf people
Belgium’s Interior Minister Bernard Quintin has announced the development of an AI-powered sign language feature for the 112 BE emergency services app, aimed at improving accessibility for deaf and hearing-impaired users. The new system will translate emergency centre messages into sign language on the caller’s screen, enabling clearer communication through a virtual interpreter. While the app already allows users to indicate if they can’t make phone calls, the upcoming feature will further enhance inclusivity. The launch date is not yet confirmed. A public awareness campaign is also underway to promote the app and its features, particularly among schools and relevant communities.
Read more here (Brussels Times).
Swedish government agency assesses the impact of 2G/3G shutdown on legacy eCall
Transport Analysis, the Swedish government agency for transport policy, has published a study on the impact of the 2G/3G shutdown on legacy eCall in Sweden (2028–2032). The study initially estimated that the shutdown would lead to 1–4 more fatalities and 10–32 more serious injuries over five years, based on a model assuming eCall reduces such outcomes by 2–4%. To validate this, the agency analysed 2022–2023 road traffic data, comparing accidents with and without automatic eCall. The results showed no clear benefit: fatality rates were slightly higher in vehicles with eCall (1.8%) than those without (1.3%), and response times were longer. In rural areas, fatalities were nearly the same (2.3% with eCall vs 2.4% without). While these results are surprising, and may vary across Member States, this report is nevertheless a good practice for Member States who would like to assess the impact of the 2G/3G shutdown on public safety.
Read more here (Transport Analysis).
FEMA sued over hold on funds for upgrading nation’s emergency alert system
The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) has filed a federal lawsuit against FEMA over its decision to pause payments from a $40 million grant programme aimed at upgrading the U.S. emergency alert system. The CPB argues that the suspension hampers the ability of public media stations to support real-time emergency alerts and leaves stations with nearly $1.9 million in unreimbursed expenses. FEMA has not provided a reason for the hold, and CPB is seeking a court order to lift the pause and resume funding under the Next Generation Warning System programme.
Bulgaria’s cell broadcast system to be tested in 2025
Bulgaria’s BG-ALERT emergency warning system will conduct two nationwide test messages in 2025, on 1 April and 1 October between 11:00 and 11:30. These tests will assess the system’s infrastructure, but will not evaluate whether citizens receive messages on their mobile devices.
BG-ALERT uses cell broadcast technology to send real-time alerts to the public without collecting personal data. Messages are issued only by authorised authorities and fall into five categories: Attention danger! (non-disableable), Serious dangers, Information, Missing person, and Test messages (which users can manage in device settings). Citizens who want to receive test alerts must ensure the test channel is activated on their devices. BG-ALERT is designed to quickly disseminate emergency messages nationwide and is governed by a regulation adopted in March 2024.
Upcoming in our network
2025 CAP Implementation Workshop & Training in Rome
22–23 October, 09:00 to 17:30 CEST
National Fire Corps Academy (ISA) in Rome, Italy
The 2025 CAP Implementation Workshop will take place on in October 2025 in Rome. A full-day CAP Training session will also be held at the same venue on 21 October. The events are open to all professionals involved in emergency alerting — including government agencies, NGOs, commercial firms, media, and technical experts. Participation is free of charge, but attendees must cover their own travel expenses. You can attend in person or online via webinar (instructions will be sent to registered participants in September).
EENA was here
A glimpse of the recent events EENA has taken part in.
CEPT Workshop on Spectrum, Numbering, ITU Policy, and Postal Regulation
20-21 March 2025
Copenhagen, Denmark
EENA attended the CEPT’s Workshop on Spectrum, Numbering, ITU Policy, and Postal Regulation. During this event, the CEPT discussed the upcoming implementation of 6G and its preparations for the World Radio Congress in 2027.