HELP

The HELP project was designed and implemented with the aim of improving the operational effectiveness of public administration in managing natural disasters and crises. Within the framework of the project, an integrated operations center for the provision of humanitarian aid was designed and constructed for the cross-border area between Greece and North Macedonia. To implement this infrastructure, standardized 20-foot shipping containers were utilized to ensure ease and speed in their transportation and deployment in the field.
The project underscores the need for effective operations in crisis situations, with the active participation of stakeholders from both countries, addressing the challenges that need to be tackled in the field of humanitarian aid in the cross-border area. Cooperation in crisis management is achieved both through the utilization of the equipment and containers developed within the project and through the development of joint action plans, communication protocols, and coordination frameworks at both the national level for the two countries and transnationally for the cross-border area. Additionally, during the HELP project, a crisis management plan was developed using the infrastructures established by the project. At the same time, public awareness and sensitization activities were carried out to inform and engage the community.
In summary, the key objectives of the HELP project included: (a) The design and construction of two interconnected units: a C4I Unit utilizing cutting-edge telecommunication technologies to ensure communication between the Operations Center and the teams operating in the crisis field, along with software for optimizing crisis management and enhancing the preparedness of civil protection authorities; and a fully equipped MED Unit for providing first aid on the field. (b) Improving the capacity of public authorities related to civil protection to more effectively address natural disasters. (c) Increasing emergency preparedness in the cross-border area between Greece and North Macedonia. (d) Enhancing strategic and operational cooperation in the field of humanitarian aid. (e) Raising public awareness on issues related to natural disasters and crisis management. (f) Promoting and fostering volunteerism.