Recent crises have highlighted the importance of resilient healthcare systems, well-prepared organisations and a workforce capable of maintaining essential services under pressure. Strengthening crisis preparedness requires not only effective emergency response structures but also attention to the health, well-being and working conditions of those responsible for responding to crises.

The EPIC project aims to enhance cooperation on health-related emergency preparedness and crisis response across the Nordic-Baltic region, drawing on the expertise and experiences of the NDPHS Partner Countries and Ukraine.

Coordinated by the NDPHS Secretariat, the project brings together public authorities, researchers, occupational safety and health experts and other relevant stakeholders to identify shared challenges, exchange knowledge and explore opportunities for more coordinated approaches to preparedness.

Through a series of workshops and conferences, EPIC facilitates knowledge exchange and discussions on organisational preparedness, workforce resilience, psychosocial risks and the support systems needed to protect workers during emergencies and prolonged crises. It pays particular attentionParticular attention is given to the role of leadership, working conditions, and cross-sectoral cooperation in sustaining essential societal functions.

Building on these exchanges, the project is developing a framework for continued regional cooperation and exploring potential transnational initiatives to strengthen organisational preparedness and workforce resilience.

Project-related articles

2026

• Helsinki EPIC Workshop develops three ideas for transnational cooperation on crisis preparedness (25 September, 2026)
• From Preparedness to Recovery: Rethinking Workforce Resilience in Times of Crisis (24 March, 2026)

The project is financed by Swedish Institute

Project partners