The Federation of EUropean Fire Officers (FEU), a collective voice representing the interests of Fire Officers across Europe, gathered at the FEU Council meeting in Birmingham, UK, 6th June 2024, to address the escalating issue of violence and aggression against first responders.
The Federation stresses the importance of conveying a clear message that aggressive behaviour towards aid workers is never acceptable under any circumstances.
The FEU strongly condemns the incidents of violence directed towards those on the front lines of emergency response and expresses deep concern for the safety and well-being of our dedicated first responders. There is an urgent need for coordinated efforts at both the national and European levels to combat this growing threat and protect those who risk their lives to safeguard our communities.
First responders play a crucial role in ensuring public safety and providing timely assistance during emergencies. However, it is disheartening to witness an alarming rise in violence targeting these dedicated professionals. Such incidents not only jeopardize the safety of first responders but also impede their ability to carry out their life-saving duties effectively.
The FEU calls upon European governments, law enforcement agencies, and the public to recognize the severity of this issue and take immediate and decisive action to reduce violence and mistreatment of first responders. We urge authorities to:
- Provide comprehensive training and resources to enhance the safety and security of first responders in the line of duty.
- Assist first responding agencies to invest in and use protective technology such as body cameras and mobile cameras
- Launch public awareness campaigns to educate communities about the importance of respecting and supporting first responders.
It is our collective responsibility to ensure a safe working environment for those who dedicate their lives to protecting others. The Federation of European Fire Officers remains committed to working collaboratively with stakeholders to address the root causes of violence against first responders and to promote a safer and more secure environment for all.
Let us give them the respect they deserve!
For further inquiries, please contact the FEU Secretary, Mrs Anna Andersson Carlin at
