Participatory process of developing an integrated fire management strategy in Cyprus, from serious game to practical strategy

Wildfire risk is increasing across Europe, yet implementation of integrated fire management (IFM) strategies remains rare. In Cyprus, under the auspices of the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, the EU-funded SEMEDFIRE project facilitated the development of the country’s first IFM strategy and action plan. Led by the Centre-of-Excellence in Risk and Decision Sciences (CERIDES) of the European University Cyprus (EUC), the process engaged more than 100 stakeholders from 50 organizations through a series of participatory workshops. Innovative methods such as the “Pyropolis” serious game fostered social learning, improved mutual understanding, and supported collective decision-making. The resulting strategy is structured around 12 challenges with short- and long-term objectives, accompanied by a stakeholder’s engagement plan to precise implementation across governance, land management, communication, and innovation.