On May 21-22, 2024, the PRECA Project marked a significant milestone by conducting simultaneous tabletop exercises across participating countries. This event was a culmination of the efforts and knowledge gained over three years through the EU CBRN CoE Project 87. The primary focus of these exercises was to enhance Command, Control, and Communication (C3) capabilities, crucial for effective public health emergency management during mass events. By applying the comprehensive knowledge received, participants were able to engage in realistic simulations that tested their preparedness and response strategies.

The EU CBRN CoE Project 87 has been instrumental in organizing a series of training workshops. The program commenced with a "Train the Trainer" workshop in Tashkent, which set the foundation for subsequent national training workshops led by the newly trained experts. This initiative was designed not only to disseminate knowledge but also to build a sustainable training framework within each participating country. Additionally, the program included specialized training in risk and media communication. This aspect aimed at enhancing participants' understanding of risk assessment, management, and effective communication with public during crises. The training combined theoretical sessions with practical exercises.

Tabletop exercises conducted simultaneously in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Pakistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. These exercises brought together a diverse group of governmental representatives from various ministries, ensuring a comprehensive approach to incident response. The presence of multiple ministries underscored the importance of inter-agency collaboration and the need for coordinated efforts in managing public health emergencies.

Background information:

The EU CBRN CoE Initiative is funded by the EU and implemented in cooperation with the United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute (UNICRI) and the European Commission Joint Research Centre (JRC). The European External Action Service is also involved in the follow-up to the initiative. The initiative is developed with the technical support of relevant international and regional organizations, the EU Member States, and other stakeholders, through coherent and effective cooperation at the national, regional and international level. The initiative involves 62 countries in eight regions across the world.

EU CBRN CoE Project 87 is implemented by the International Science and Technology Center (ISTC), Astana, Kazakhstan. This project focuses on enhancing preparedness and response capabilities for mass gatherings and public health emergencies. The project has been underway for more than three years and formed a network of experts in Food Safety, Water Safety, Chemical Safety and Public Health Command Control and Communications (C3).