With the adoption of the opinion by ECR rapporteur Ádám Karácsony on the European Union’s stockpiling strategy during its May plenary session, the CoR has adopted text that sends a clear message on the need to strengthen Europe’s preparedness and crisis‑response capacities, with a strong territorial dimension at its core. 

"In times of crisis — whether arising from pandemics, disruptions to energy supply, natural disasters or geopolitical conflicts — citizens across all European regions should have access to essential goods and services", said Mr Karácsony who also emphasized that preparedness cannot be reduced to the mere accumulation of stocks. 

At the same time, increasing extreme weather events — such as floods, wildfires, droughts and storms — are placing sudden and uneven pressure on transport networks, energy systems, food distribution and emergency services. According to the rapporteur, these developments further highlight the need for flexible, well‑coordinated and deployable stockpiles, capable of being mobilised where needs are most urgent. 

A central feature of the adopted opinion is the decisive role of local and regional authorities. Mr Karácsony stressed that crises are first felt at territorial level and that effective responses depend on the meaningful involvement of regions and cities in both planning and implementation.

“Local and regional authorities play a decisive role. They are the first to experience the concrete consequences of disruptions, and they are also the first to act,” he said, adding that a stockpiling strategy closely linked to territorial realities is more likely to deliver timely and effective support.