Ursula von der Leyen praised a team of 20 Greek forest commandos who helped save a Spanish village during deadly wildfires, highlighting Europe's need for stronger climate resilience and cross-border cooperation

Intense physical and mental demands during wildfire response increase cardiovascular risks, musculoskeletal injuries, and fatigue among professional and volunteer firefighters, highlighting the need for specialized training and prevention

Croatia and Greece record percentages of 0.45% and 0.41%, respectively, in share of firefighters in their domestic employment sector

The firefighting workforce is seriously understaffed and aging, with an average age close to 48 years and some firefighters aged between 67 and 70

Prime Minister Mitsotakis closed his remarks by reaffirming the government’s full backing for Greece’s firefighters: “Your mission is sacred. Our job is to ensure you have the tools, training, and technology to carry it out safely and successfully.”

The total firefighting force for summer 2025 is 18,031 personnel. This includes 11,746 permanent staff, 1,860 on five-year contracts, 1,455 forest commandos, and 2,500 seasonal firefighters. Additionally, there are 5,500 civil protection volunteers and 5,000 volunteer firefighters

Full-year employment not on the minister’s agenda. Firefighters rejected proposals, which included increasing age limits.