The public health emergency response system still lacks many of the structures and guidelines needed to make it more resilient in times of crisis. Two civil protection experts argue that publicly funded hospitals should take the lead in this effort.
By Gollaleh Ahmadi and Björn Stahlhut
Germany’s top civil protection agency will soon have a new president in Grit Tüngler. However, she appears to have had little previous experience in the field.
By Lisa-Martina Klein
The Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance (BBK) may soon be left without a director. Ralph Tiesler is retiring – and no successor appears to be in sight.
By Lisa-Martina Klein
The German Federal Office for Civil Protection (FOCP) is calling on municipalities to designate public shelters from March 2026. However, key questions regarding criteria and threat scenarios remain unanswered. Funding is largely the responsibility of the municipalities themselves.
By Lisa-Martina Klein
Andreas Bovenschulte expects an agreement on a uniform shelter concept at the meeting of interior ministers at the beginning of December. After decades of inactivity, the president of the Bundesrat is calling for a rethink in civil defense.
By Lisa-Martina Klein
Everyone should have this at home: Drinking water, non-perishable food and a crank radio. Only one in three Germans is prepared for a supply failure.
By Nana Brink
The Federal Government is providing EUR 100 billion for investment in the federal states and local authorities – including for civil protection and critical infrastructure. However, it is up to the federal states themselves to decide how exactly the funds are used on the ground.
By Lisa-Martina Klein
The BBK is looking for research partners to better arm shelters against chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear hazards. The late timing of the call for tenders raises questions.
By Lisa-Martina Klein
