For more than 50 years, the Confederation of Fire Protection Associations Europe (CFPA Europe) has been supporting international exchange in the fields of fire protection, safety and natural hazards. In an interview, Chairwoman Elisabetta Carrea provides exciting insights into the organization's mission, achievements and future strategies.
Why knowledge sharing is crucial
“The exchange highlights the differences, but it is also an enrichment because it allows us to look at certain aspects from a different perspective and to implement measures in a more efficient and targeted way.” - Elisabetta Carrea
In a world that is rapidly changing due to technological innovation, climate change and new safety requirements, international knowledge transfer is becoming increasingly important. Founded in 1974, CFPA Europe now networks 26 national fire safety organisations, helping to develop best practice, harmonise technical standards and provide training programmes for safety professionals.
From fire protection to cyber security - the mission of CFPA Europe
While the organization's original focus was on fire protection, its scope has broadened considerably in recent years. Today, CFPA Europe's work includes:
Security & Risk Management: protection of critical infrastructures, security concepts for companies
Natural hazards & disaster prevention: strategies to minimize environmental risks
International Training programmes & Certifications: Knowledge transfer for professionals across Europe
The focus is on a clear objective: to provide the best possible protection for people, nature and infrastructure.
Strategy for the future: expanding global cooperation
On the occasion of its 50th anniversary, CFPA Europe has published a new strategy with an even stronger focus on global networking. In addition to Europe, countries such as South Africa and South Korea have already expressed an interest in becoming members in order to benefit from the organization's experience and standards.
At the same time, megatrends such as the energy transition, artificial intelligence and new building materials are shaping the security industry. How do smart buildings, battery technologies or hydrogen as an energy source affect fire protection? These questions are being discussed in the CFPA commissions and addressed in new guidelines.
Conclusion: Safety is teamwork - across borders
CFPA Europe is an impressive example of how international cooperation can advance safety standards. Whether fire protection, security or disaster prevention - tomorrow's challenges can only be met by sharing knowledge.
