EU commemorates the victims of the global climate crisis

Today, the EU commemorates the victims of the global climate crisis, at a ceremony held in Brussels attended by Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarčič and representatives of the Belgian government.  

On this second annual EU Day for the Victims of the Global Climate Crisis, we honour those lost to and affected by the climate crisis. This day also serves as a call to action to minimise the impact of climate change wherever we can and build resilience to protect lives and livelihoods.

In 2023, the European Parliament, the Council and the European Commission signed a Joint Declaration to establish an annual EU Day for the Victims of the Global Climate Crisis, on 15 July each year. It is an occasion to remember victims in Europe and worldwide, as well as to raise awareness of actions people can take to reduce the risk of climate impacts and to be better prepared for and respond to climate disasters.

Commissioner for Crisis Management, Janez Lenarčič, said: “July 15 marks the second EU Day for the Victims of the Global Climate Crisis. Today we remember those people who have died in climate disasters around the world on the anniversary of the terrible flooding that took so many lives on this day three years ago across Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg and the Netherlands. We also take this opportunity to look ahead to the challenges to come. The European Union will continue its efforts to mitigate climate change as well as to strengthen climate adaptation and resilience, giving the next generation hope for a better, safer tomorrow.”  

Commissioner for Climate Action, Wopke Hoekstra, said: “Climate change is a clear and present danger. It is part of our reality. Three years ago today, Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg and the Netherlands experienced devastating floods. Today, we are commemorating people who passed that day, but also in every single person who lost their life due to climate change all around the world. We need to work together on making sure our societies are better equipped to face climate disasters, by for example investing in climate adaptation.''

Earlier this year, the European Commission presented a Communication on Managing Climate Risks, in response to the first ever EU Climate Risk Assessment from the European Environment Agency.