Greece has officially launched its first unified National Animal Protection Mechanism for natural disasters. Unveiled on Monday, June 15, the initiative aims to end the chaotic, improvised rescue efforts that have historically characterized past emergencies.
The centerpiece of this new mechanism is Greece’s first-ever dedicated reception center for animals affected by natural and human-induced disasters, located at the former Olympic facilities in Galatsi, Athens.
The new mechanism establishes unified protocols, defined responsibilities, and coordinated command structures for all categories of animals—including companion, farm, livestock, equine, and wildlife. The framework was jointly adopted by the Ministries of Interior, Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, and Environment and Energy, working in direct cooperation with animal welfare and environmental organizations.
“Until now, the management of animals during natural disasters was largely fragmented, without a unified operational framework, clear roles, or predetermined coordination procedures,” noted Special Secretary Nikos Chryssakis, highlighting the structural shift.
Society’s responsibility for animals in natural disasters
A major focus of the launch was the vital role played by civil society. Prime Minister Mitsotakis emphasized that this milestone is the direct result of institutional cooperation with non-profit groups and grassroots volunteers.
“When the state listens to and works together with civil society—in this case the people dedicated to the protection of animals—something genuinely positive can emerge,” Mitsotakis stated.
“Nothing could have been achieved without the unwavering support of volunteers. I would like you to reserve your warmest applause for the volunteers, in this case those of Dogs’ Voice—the people who, if necessary, will be deployed in the field, leaving their jobs or holidays behind in order to provide this extremely important service.”
While celebrating the launch, advocates stressed that the hard work is just beginning. Elena Dede, founder of the non-profit Dogs’ Voice, whose organization was instrumental in co-developing the framework, cautioned that the ultimate success of the mechanism depends heavily on its consistent, long-term implementation across all four pillars of disaster management: prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery.
Related: Takis Shelter: The Greek Man Who Devotes His Life to Stray Animals
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