The EU Civil Protection Team of 11 experts from are fully operational in Venezuela.
VENEZUELA – The European Union has significantly strengthened its humanitarian response following the devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela on 24 June, deploying an EU Civil Protection Team of 11 technical experts to support emergency operations on the ground.
The multinational team, composed of specialists from Spain, Austria, Italy, Luxembourg, Belgium, Estonia, and the European Commission's Emergency Response Coordination Centre (ERCC), is now fully operational, providing technical coordination and strategic support to rescue and relief efforts.
Coordinating a Large-Scale International Response
The deployment comes as the EU Civil Protection Mechanism continues coordinating one of the largest international disaster responses currently underway in Latin America.
More than 700 European rescuers, firefighters, search-and-rescue specialists, medical personnel, and civil protection experts have been mobilized to assist Venezuelan authorities in search, rescue, emergency medical care, logistics, and humanitarian relief.
The technical experts are working closely with local emergency services to:
- Coordinate international rescue operations.
- Assess damage and humanitarian needs.
- Improve communication between response teams.
- Support operational planning.
- Facilitate the delivery of emergency assistance.
European Solidarity in Action
Following Venezuela's formal request for assistance, the European Union activated its EU Civil Protection Mechanism, allowing Member States to rapidly deploy specialized teams and resources.
So far, several European countries have contributed rescue teams, medical units, telecommunications support, emergency shelters, and specialized equipment.
In parallel, the European Commission has activated the Copernicus Emergency Management Service, which provides high-resolution satellite imagery and emergency mapping to help responders identify the hardest-hit areas and improve rescue operations. More than two dozen emergency maps have already been produced to support field teams.
Humanitarian Assistance Expands
Beyond emergency rescue operations, the European Union has announced additional humanitarian assistance worth €5 million to provide immediate support for affected communities.
The funding will help deliver:
- Emergency shelter
- Healthcare services
- Water and sanitation assistance
- Essential relief supplies
- Support for displaced families
- Educational materials for affected children
The EU is also organizing a Humanitarian Air Bridge, transporting approximately 50 tonnes of emergency supplies to Venezuela, including shelter materials, water and sanitation equipment, and humanitarian aid.
A Commitment to Saving Lives
European Commissioner for Preparedness and Crisis Management Hadja Lahbib reaffirmed the EU's commitment to supporting the Venezuelan people, emphasizing that European countries continue to demonstrate remarkable solidarity by contributing rescue personnel, medical teams, technical expertise, and emergency resources.
The ongoing operation highlights the importance of international cooperation during major disasters, with the EU Civil Protection Mechanism enabling rapid coordination between participating countries and ensuring that assistance reaches those most in need as quickly as possible
They are providing technical support as more than 700 European rescuers and medical experts are currently responding to the devastating consequences of the earthquakes.