Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear threats (CBRN)
The National Workshop in Finland which will focus on Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear threats (CBRN).
This National Workshop is organized and hosted by the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health in Finland, with support from EPIC11. The workshop will centre on Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) preparedness, bringing together international experts and stakeholders from diverse sectors to foster cross-sector collaboration in the planning and implementation of Finland's national CBRN strategy. Participants from healthcare, social, and wellbeing services, alongside the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health preparedness units, will engage in discussions to develop a unified, multisectoral approach to CBRN planning. The event aims to strengthen comprehensive preparedness and promote coordinated actions within Finland and its neighbouring regions.
Specifically, we aim to:
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Familiarize participants with cross-border CBRN threats and the current state of preparedness at the national level.
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Facilitate the implementation of the national CBRN strategy by promoting actionable steps and collaboration across sectors.
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Establish a unified understanding of the role of preparedness centres in guiding and coordinating national preparedness planning efforts.
The objectives and methodology of the National Workshop were extensively discussed and endorsed by the host organisation. The aims, programme and methodology, including terminology used in this document, reflect the preferences of the host organisation.
This National Workshop will create an engaging and focused environment, enabling participants to collaboratively develop a comprehensive and actionable plan for strengthening CBRN preparedness plan in Finland. The methodology of the workshop is designed to foster active engagement, knowledge-sharing, and collaborative planning among participants through a combination of presentations, discussions, and practical exercises.
The workshop begins with introductory sessions to establish a common understanding of EU obligations, Finland's national preparedness plan, and the roles of key stakeholders such as the Advisory Board for Health and Welfare in Emergency Conditions (PONK) and preparedness centres. This is followed by in-depth presentations on Finland’s Pandemic Preparedness Plan and the national CBRN strategy, setting the foundation for exploring cross-border CBRN threats and preparedness from the perspectives of healthcare and social welfare systems.
Interactive elements, such as discussions, group work and panel sessions, encourage participants to reflect on the implications of CBRN events for various service providers, including home-based care, and to share their perspectives on preparedness challenges and solutions. The second day focuses on practical applications, including regional planning examples, addressing specific issues like psychosocial support, and integrating CBRN considerations into broader preparedness plans. Group work on material preparedness invites participants to assess existing resources, identify gaps, and propose strategies for support and training at the local level.
Date and location
Date: 11- 12 February 2025.
Venue: Helsinki, Finland.
The event will be conducted predominantly in Finnish language, with exception of introductory sessions by EPIC11.
Target audience
The national workshop will gather 40-50 participants from a broad range of sectors involved in PPR planning. Key participants include representatives from various counties involved in healthcare, social services, environmental health, preparedness centres, and personnel working in preparedness planning.