Working on the ground

The EU has more staff working in crisis-hit areas than in its Brussels headquarters. Field experts provide the very latest information and analysis about ongoing events and advise on the action to be taken. They also offer technical support and monitor aid operations as they unfold.

These people work out of field offices which differ in size and role. Larger country offices are located in major crisis areas where EU humanitarian aid is being delivered. Smaller offices rely on regional offices for technical and administrative support.

The flexibility of the EU’s approach to delivering aid allows for the establishment of temporary offices – called antennae – at short notice. The antennae are usually run by national staff who monitor activities and provide administrative assistance.