#SWEM Exchanging experiences for more sustainable communities
On September 3, 2026, an intersectoral working meeting and exchange of experiences took place in Ivano-Frankivsk as part of the “Sustainable Management of Weather-Related Emergencies” (SWEM) project, implemented under the Interreg NEXT Romania–Ukraine 2021–2027 program.
The meeting was attended by Ukrainian and Romanian partners, who discussed practices, solutions, and community needs in the area of emergency response.
Special attention was given to the role of citizens during emergencies: what they need to know and do before and during a danger, as well as what actions to avoid in order not to create additional risks.
They also discussed communication with citizens, coordination between services and institutions, coordination mechanisms, and ways to improve them. A practical guide for communities was also presented. Participants offered expert suggestions on which issues and recommendations should be included in the document to ensure it is as useful as possible for communities in real-life situations.
An important part of the meeting was identifying common areas for further cooperation between Ukrainian and Romanian partners. Participants identified potential initiatives, the necessary resources, and the first steps toward their implementation.
The participants continued to exchange experiences during visits to shelters at the Medical University and Lyceums No. 5 and No. 3 in Ivano-Frankivsk to familiarize themselves with practical solutions in the field of safety and civil protection.
This publication has been produced with the assistance of the European Union. The contents of this publication are the sole responsibility of Executive Committee of the Ivano-Frankivsk City Council and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the European Union or of the Interreg VI-A NEXT Romania-Ukraine Programme 2021- 2027 management structures.