Burn victims of North Macedonian nightclub fire being evacuated by the EU

In the early hours of Sunday, March 16, a fire broke out in a discotheque in Kocani, North Macedonia, killing 59 people and injuring more than 155 others. The EU Emergency Response Coordination Center quickly contacted the North Macedonian civil protection authorities to offer solidarity and support. North Macedonia has activated the Union Civil Protection Mechanism and requested assistance to evacuate 15 patients who suffered severe burns. Nine European countries (Croatia, Greece, Romania, Slovenia, Sweden, Lithuania, Hungary, Luxembourg and Norway) have reacted immediately and have made offers of immediate assistance through the mechanism.

Luxembourg has already evacuated several patients to Hungary, and Romania is transporting patients to Lithuania. The EU is now coordinating the transport of more patients to other countries that have offered treatment. The EU continues to work closely with the national authorities in North Macedonia and stands ready to mobilize further assistance if needed.

Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management Hadja Lahbib said: “We send our deepest condolences to the families of the victims and to all those affected. At this very difficult time the EU stands in solidarity with the people of North Macedonia. I would like to thank the European countries for promptly offering treatment and assistance to the victims through our Civil Protection Mechanism.

More information: European Comission