Reconceptualizing the civil defence paradigm: Insights from European civil protection developments in the DPPI SEE member states

Abstract

Background and Purpose:

The European civil protection landscape has evolved in response to growing transboundary risks, necessitating enhanced cooperation, interoperability, and resilience. The Union Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM), established in 2001 to strengthen cooperation between EU member states and neighbouring countries, and related EU policies have played a pivotal role in shaping national civil protection and civil defence strategies, promoting collective preparedness and coordinated responses (Schmertzing, 2020).

In the recent years, following the Russia’s aggression (February 2022) and war in Ukraine, the European approach to civil protection has changed toward a civil defence paradigm that integrates prevention, preparedness, and response capabilities across borders. In such a way, the UCPM plays a key role in enhancing collective resilience, supported by progressive cooperation instruments like RescEU (European Commission, 2020). These efforts are aligned with the complementary frameworks as the Sendai Framework, which emphasizes risk reduction, capacity building, and resilient infrastructure (UNDRR, 2015).

The transition from civil protection to a comprehensive civil defence paradigm in South-Eastern Europe reflects broader European trends emphasizing cross-border cooperation, innovation, and adaptability. Within this framework and in a regional scope, Disaster Preparedness and Prevention Initiative for South-Eastern Europe (DPPI SEE) serves as a regional platform facilitating collaboration among national civil protection authorities, fostering knowledge exchange, and supporting capacity-building efforts, in disaster preparedness and prevention. DPPI SEE facilitates regional cooperation through learning from each other and by sharing national and cross-border experiences, as well as with European standards while addressing region-specific challenges (Kešetović & Samardžija, 2014).

This paper examines the extent to which recent developments within the European civil protection system influence national paradigms of civil defence in the DPPI SEE region, with a focus on preparedness, prevention, and cross-border cooperation. This study investigates how these developments shape national civil defence strategies in the SEE region.

Methodology
The study employs qualitative data to capture a comprehensive view of national perspectives in conceptualizing their national civil protection policies. The primary data collection method involves a structured questionnaire distributed to representatives of the ten DPPI SEE member states. The questionnaire includes selected questions designed to elicit insights into current civil protection/defence policies, perceived challenges, and the impact of European approach on national practices. Respondents are asked to assess consistency regarding the needs and potential effectiveness of this shift from civil protection to civil defence, according to new developments in the broader European context and in alignment of national systems with EU standards. The collected data is analysed to identify common themes, divergences, and emerging trends, providing a nuanced understanding of regional dynamics (Bossong & Hegemann, 2015). Data analysis identifies trends and differences across member states, providing insights into the region’s collective preparedness and interoperability.

Findings
Preliminary findings indicate a broad recognition of the need to adapt national civil protection/defence systems to address contemporary risks more effectively. Enhanced cooperation through mechanisms like UCPM and RescEU is seen as essential, though disparities in legal framework, institutional capacity and resources present challenges (Schmertzing, 2020). The countries in DPPI SEE region are aligning national legislation with EU standards while maintaining the flexibility to address local contexts.

Research limitations/implications

This study provides a regional perspective on the evolving civil defence paradigm within the DPPI SEE member states. However, the research is subject to several limitations. First, the reliance on self-reported data from national representatives may introduce biases in responses, particularly in assessing national capabilities and alignment with European frameworks. Second, the study does not incorporate extensive case studies or longitudinal data, which could provide deeper insights into the actual implementation of civil defence measures over time. Additionally, variations in institutional structures and political contexts across DPPI SEE countries make direct comparisons challenging. Future research should explore these aspects through field studies, in-depth interviews, and scenario-based simulations to further assess the practical application of European civil protection principles in national contexts.

Practical implications

The findings underscore the importance of strengthening regional cooperation and interoperability within the DPPI SEE framework. As national civil defence policies evolve toward a more integrated European approach, several practical recommendations emerge several aspects, as follows:

• Legal and Institutional Harmonization. Member states should align their civil defence frameworks more closely with EU standards to facilitate smoother cross-border cooperation.
• Capacity-Building Initiatives. Targeted training and joint exercises should be expanded to enhance civil defence’s interoperability and preparedness among DPPI SEE countries.
• Investment in Technology and Innovation. The integration of digital tools, such as AI-driven risk assessment and real-time emergency communication systems, should be prioritized.
• Cross-Sector Collaboration. Strengthening partnerships between national governments, regional organizations, and private sector actors will improve resource mobilization and crisis response efficiency.

Originality/Value

The paper explores the evolving paradigm of civil defence in the context of contemporary developments within the European civil protection framework, focusing on the experiences of the DPPI SEE. With the increasing complexity and frequency of disasters—both natural and human-made—the traditional approaches to civil defence are undergoing significant transformations. This study investigates how these changes are perceived and implemented across the ten DPPI SEE member states, aiming to identify both common trends (across various national frameworks) and DPPI SEE’s region-specific challenges.