Each year, natural and technological 
hazards cause thousands of deaths
and huge economic losses worldwide.
They pose a major threat to the lives of
millions and,
with the onset of climate change and 
technological development,
they are increasing in frequency and 
strength.
Although it is poor nations that suffer
the worst consequences,
every country is threatened by
these hazards.
Particularly in Europe, we have suffered
significant disasters, such as
dam failures, nuclear accidents,
landslides,
earthquakes, floods and fires.
A good preparedness to natural and
technological hazards is essential
to avoid or mitigate 
disasters in the future.
That's why the EUR-OPA Major Hazards
Agreement was set up in 1987
by the Council of Europe
to contribute to build more
resilient societies to disasters
through international cooperation.
The Europa agreement works hand in hand
with governments in many different ways.
It helps them improve risk assessment 
through the latest
science and technology innovations,
gives recommendations on how to address
emerging threats,
promotes countries to exchange information
about past events,
and also enhances the coordination between
authorities to improve reaction
at emergencies.
The EUR-OPA Agreement also helps citizens
to be prepared.
EUR-OPA generates material to promote
a better understanding of the threats,
encourages people to take an active role
in preventing disasters,
works in the protection of the most
vulnerable individuals,
and advocates for the respect of human 
rights in the exceptional situations
generated during emergencies.
Today, the EUR-OPA agreement unites 25
countries all over Europe and beyond,
and 26 specialised research centres with
one clear mission:
to help preventing natural and 
technological hazards from becoming
human catastrophes.
