ABSTRACT
The aim of this chapter is to present the Union Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM) as a system operating within a defined operational framework, which has significant potential for short-term disaster responses in the international environment. The overall objective of the UCPM is to strengthen cooperation between participating states in the field of civil protection. Currently, 35 countries are directly involved in downloading and sharing resources through the system. This is intended to improve the effectiveness of disaster prevention, preparedness and response structures that strengthen national efforts in shaping and maintaining effective national security systems. The UCPM mobilises support at the request of any country in the world affected by a disaster, including circumstances related to acts of terrorism. By combining the capabilities to protect the populations of participating countries, the UCPM can provide better protection primarily for people, but also for the natural and cultural environment and property. The chapter presents the principles of the UCPM, how it is activated, and its current potential to shape national security through disaster risk reduction in a good practice perspective.
