Portuguese cities gather to share expertise on urban resilience

The 7th annual meeting of the Portuguese National Platform on DRR’s working group on Resilient Cities was held in Odemira on 12-13 January. The gathering brought together public officials, academics, and researchers working in disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation. The Secretary of State for Internal Administration, Patrícia Gaspar, and the Mayor of Odemira, Hélder Guerreiro, both attended the opening session.

The working group is led by the National Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction, in partnership with the Making Cities Resilient 2030 initiative, and provides a platform for Portuguese cities to share knowledge and best practices on reducing disaster risk and adapting to climate change impacts. The meeting is a model of collaboration, bringing together experts, stakeholders, and decision-makers to discuss the latest developments, challenges, and opportunities in urban resilience.

During the event, participants discussed a range of important topics, including local resilience strategies, and the role of the non-profit organization, Safe Communities Portugal, in civil protection and security, the implementation of Integrated Operations Centers, and inclusive emergency management. Discussions also focused on merging the Municipal Civil Protection Service with the Municipal Police, as well as the preparation and planning of population support zones, known as “Zonas de Concentração de Apoio à População (ZCAP)”, which provide shelter and support to civilians faced with different emergencies.

Odemira joined MCR2030 in December 2021, with many further Portuguese cities joining the initiative since. The country is also home to two MCR2030 Resilience Hubs, Matosinhos and Amadora. By exchanging knowledge and learning from each other, Portuguese cities are working towards a more resilient future for their communities and citizens.