Brussels, 16.12.2024

The European Emergency Number Association (EENA) is proud to announce the publication of the Public Warning Report Card, an in-depth evaluation of public warning systems across Europe. As the frequency and complexity of natural disasters and emergencies increase, the report highlights the indispensable role of timely and effective public warnings.

Public warning systems are critical tools that alert people to immediate dangers through a variety of channels, including mobile phones, sirens, TV, and social media. The Public Warning Report Card reviews the technologies, strategies, and governance models employed by European countries to ensure compliance with the EU’s European Electronic Communications Code (Directive 2018/1972), which mandates Member States to deliver alerts directly to people in affected areas.

Reviewing the implementation of public warning systems in each European country, the report underscores that technology alone is not enough, as also highlighted during the recent floods in the Valencia region. Effective public warning systems require robust strategies, well-defined operational frameworks, and seamless coordination to ensure that alerts reach those in need, including vulnerable populations.

The report highlights several key insights, including:

  • Technological landscape: Usage of public warning channels, including Cell Broadcast, Location-Based SMS, and multi-channel approaches, to maximise reach.
  • Governance and operations: Insights into the roles of national and regional authorities, and the process for sending alerts.
  • Best practices: Examples from European countries that have developed effective public warning strategies.
  • Community-centred approach: Emphasis on inclusivity, ensuring that alerts are accessible to all, including people with disabilities and those in remote areas.
  • Future challenges: A look at the current challenges and evolving public warning systems, with a focus on cybersecurity, privacy, and the adaptation of systems to new technologies like 4G and 5G.

The report is available for EENA’s members only.

If you’re not a member of EENA and would like to get access to the report, please contact Jerome Paris at [email protected]

The Public Warning Report Card was made possible thanks to the support of Opencode.

For more information on the report, please contact Benoit Vivier [email protected]

Request the report card here.