The ESPON Targeted Analysis “ResiLIAnce – Improving local intermediate authorities’ crises preparedness and territorial resilience” is culminating in a key conference, and we invite you to be part of this vital discussion. This hybrid event offers the flexibility to join us in person for an immersive experience or connect online from anywhere in Europe.
Over the past 12 months, a dedicated research consortium led by Technopolis Consulting Group B (BE) has conducted a comprehensive territorial analysis across 10 Local and Intermediate Authorities (LIAs) throughout the EU. This in-depth study has critically assessed their response mechanisms to both natural and social crises, all with the ambitious goal of enhancing place-based resilience strategies in our territories.
The LIAs actively involved in the ESPON ResiLIAnce project represent diverse European regions:
- France: Aude Provincial Council, Var Provincial Council
- Spain: Segovia Provincial Council, Jaén Provincial Council
- Romania: Harghita Provincial Council, Maramureş Provincial Council
- Italy: Province of Lucca, Province of Pesaro-Urbino
- Germany: County of Karlsruhe
- Poland: Poznan Provincial Council
Like many other European regions, these territories face increasing exposure to natural risks such as floods, landslides, wildfires, and droughts, amplified by ongoing climate change. Simultaneously, many grapple with social crises like depopulation and out-migration due to limited accessibility, leading paradoxically to both workforce shortages in key sectors and high unemployment locally.
Do not miss this event
In a world of escalating natural hazards and complex social challenges, territorial resilience has become an urgent political priority. While the effectiveness of its integration into public policies varies across LIAs, these authorities are undeniably on the front lines, playing a pivotal role in linking and coordinating public and private actors to harmonise responses.
The ESPON ResiLIAnce project has meticulously analysed the specific risks faced by these 10 LIAs, evaluated existing risk management and prevention policies, unearthed best practices from across Europe, and developed a practical risk prevention and management toolkit. This toolkit is designed to be a valuable resource for any territory confronting similar challenges.
Conference Highlights
This two-half-day conference marks the culmination of this Targeted Analysis and celebrates the highly committed cooperation between researchers, LIA stakeholders, and the ESPON EGTC.
Day One kicks off with compelling field tours to areas affected by the catastrophic flash flooding in Valencia (ES) in October 2024. This provides a crucial, real-world context for our discussions. Afterwards, there will be ample opportunity for vital exchanges between civil protection and/or firefighting services from the different LIAs that actively participated in the project.
Day Two is dedicated to unveiling the key findings of ESPON ResiLIAnce. Expect insightful keynote addresses reflecting on diverse perspectives around the imperative to improve territorial resilience. Engaging roundtable discussions with provincial presidents will offer reflections on the project’s learnings and explore potential strategic visions for the future of their territories.
Who should join?
Designed to be concise, engaging, and policy-focused, this event offers invaluable insights for:
- Policymakers seeking actionable strategies for crisis preparedness.
- Urban and regional planners looking to integrate resilience into territorial development.
- Anyone invested in fostering stronger, more resilient communities across Europe.
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with leading experts, gain practical tools, and contribute to a more resilient future for Europe.
SOURCE: ESPON