Disaster Risk Management (DRM) plays a pivotal role in safeguarding communities, especially in border areas where vulnerabilities may be exacerbated. This article examines the policy framework's effectiveness in addressing specific risks outlined in sectoral legislation. The focus is on showcasing some findings of the recent study on Strengthening the resilience of EU border regions: Mapping risks & crisis management tools and identifying gaps carried out by a consortium led by Technopolis Group with CMCC and Nordregio as partners on behalf of DG REGIO and DG ECHO. An essential part of the study was dedicated to analysing multi-risk and sectoral policies concerning border regions, identifying gaps, and providing recommendations for improvement.

A key concern highlighted in the study is the need for improved coherence between disaster risk-relevant policies and their integration with other sectoral policies. Closer collaboration with climate and environmental authorities is emphasised, ensuring that risk reduction measures align with changing climate conditions. 

Synergies between DRM legal frameworks and other domains, such as environment, information and communication technology (ICT), and eGovernment, are crucial. Additionally, coherence with relevant Union legislation related to prevention and disaster risk management is essential, especially in addressing cross-border prevention actions and responses to serious health threats.

Challenges in implementing the Floods Directive include managing rare flooding events, public consultation, and basin-level management. Greater alignment is necessary, especially in transnational catchments, to ensure consistency in identifying Areas at Potential Significant Flood Risk, implementing flood hazard and flood risk maps, and developing Flood Risk Management Plans. 

While cooperation on responding to critical infrastructure disruptions is robust, preparedness, especially in sectors like food, transport, and energy, requires improvement. Addressing supranational, political, legislative, regulatory, and municipal dimensions is important for successful risk management. Regarding health, there is a shared recognition for the need to map potential capacities and cooperation to enhance European preparedness for medical urgencies. Strengthening capacities and cooperation in managing health-related risks is also another essential are of cooperation in border regions. Linking building policies with DRM is essential, especially concerning seismic risks. Renovating buildings for improved energy performance should simultaneously enhance seismic resilience, reflecting a comprehensive approach to risk reduction.

Involving local authorities and industries in cross-border exercises on technological risks is emphasised in the study. Enhanced collaboration in risk assessment and preparedness is essential for addressing the unique challenges posed by technological risks in border territories.

To strengthen DRM capacity in border areas, policymakers must address gaps identified in sectoral legislation. Improved coherence, harmonised approaches, and comprehensive strategies across various risk domains are essential. This analysis provides an inspiring foundation for refining policies, promoting collaboration, and ultimately enhancing the resilience of communities in border regions.