The new ProtectEU strategy marks the beginning of a new era, in which Member States strengthen their capabilities to protect societies and democracies. This includes enhanced threat assessments, greater use of EU-developed technologies, and stronger operational cooperation between police forces across Europe.

A European Critical Communication System (EUCCS) will be developed to facilitate the secure exchange of sensitive information and enhance cooperation among first responders, including police, ambulance services and fire brigades.

Real-time information sharing between Member States is vital. Many serious incidents occur in border regions: natural disasters such as flooding or wildfires, major traffic collisions, or criminal suspects attempting to flee across national boundaries.

All of this requires an accurate, timely and coordinated response from police operational centres working closely not only with neighbouring police forces, but also with ambulance services and firefighters, who play a crucial role in crisis response.

The Role of the ENLETS OC TIG

The ENLETS Operational Centres Technology Interest Group (OC TIG) works to create the practical conditions necessary for faster cross-border information exchange between police operational centres, particularly during the “Golden Hour”—the critical first phase of an incident when rapid information sharing can significantly improve the response to any security threat.

The OC TIG places strong emphasis on the implementation of new technologies and on supporting the development of the EU Critical Communication System (EUCCS), which is expected to be implemented from 2030 onwards.

While EUCCS will provide Member States with enhanced technical capabilities in the future, the OC TIG is already working daily to strengthen cross-border information exchange. This includes identifying potential (including hybrid) threats, developing pan-European networks and realistic threat scenarios, and training operational centre staff through practical exercises. Tools such as the ENLETS Messenger already enable secure cross-border data exchange and help familiarise staff with operational cooperation beyond national borders.

Effective cross-border communication depends on reliable technology and fit-for-purpose operational software. However, the greatest challenge is not technological—it is organisational and cultural. Successful cooperation requires harmonised procedures, mutual trust and well-trained personnel who are confident in operating across borders. Creating these conditions for seamless operational collaboration is at the very heart of the OC TIG’s work.

Our aim is to:

• Support the creation of a pan-European network of national police operational centres.
• Ensure real-time, secure and interoperable cross-border communications at command level.
• Support and contribute to the development of the EU Critical Communication System (EUCCS).

Looking Ahead

As Europe faces increasingly complex and cross-border security challenges, cooperation between operational centres is no longer optional—it is essential. By strengthening networks, aligning procedures and preparing the ground for EUCCS, the ENLETS OC TIG is helping to ensure that when the next crisis occurs, Europe’s operational centres are ready to respond together—swiftly, securely and effectively.

To stay informed about our activities, follow ENLETS through our newsletter and social media channels. If you represent a Law Enforcement Agency and would like to contribute to strengthening cross-border operational cooperation, we invite you to join the ENLETS network and become part of this shared European effort.