OJS (University of Applied Sciences Velika Gorica)
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Strategy of urban security of the City of Zagreb for the period 2025 – 2030
No full textAbstract: Urban security involves coordinated actions to enhance a city’s capacity to respond to risks threatening citizens' safety and quality of life. The City of Zagreb has developed an Urban Security Strategy for 2025-2030, integrating existing policies with a focus on improving safety and quality of life. Though not legally required, the strategy is deemed essential by the city. Considering growing urban complexity due to population growth, climate change, and evolving security threats, the strategy emphasizes proactive risk assessment, smart surveillance, and real-time data analysis to improve situational awareness and emergency response. A 2023 study assessed citizens' safety perceptions and identified high-risk areas using surveys, interviews, and spatial data. Key areas of focus in the strategy include public transport, health and environmental protection, crime prevention, disaster response, terrorism and energy security. The strategy promotes collaboration, stakeholder participation, and technological advancements.
1. INTRODUCTIONUrban security encompasses a range of coordinated activities aimed at enhancing the capacity of cities to respond to risks threatening citizens' safety and quality of life. In this context, urban security is a crucial area of action for cities, including Zagreb, which has developed the Strategy of Urban Security of the City of Zagreb for the period 2025-2030. This strategic document integrates existing policies while enhancing them with a security-focused approach to improve citizens' quality of life and overall safety. Although not a legal requirement, the City of Zagreb recognizes the necessity and importance of adopting such a strategy. The increasing complexity of urban environments, due to population growth, climate change, and evolving security threats, has underscored the need for comprehensive and adaptable security measures. Zagreb's approach emphasizes proactive risk assessment and the integration of new technologies, such as smart surveillance systems and real-time data analysis, to enhance situational awareness and emergency response.
2. METHODOLOGYTo obtain an updated assessment of the security status and quality of life in Zagreb, a study was conducted in April 2023 to evaluate citizens' perceptions of safety and well-being across different districts. The research methodology included surveys and interviews with residents, policy makers, and security experts. The study focused on key urban security factors, including uninterrupted access to energy, food supply chains, transportation uninterrupted access, and social services, as these elements are crucial for ensuring a secure and resilient urban environment. In addition to primary data collection, a comparative analysis was performed, drawing on best practices from European cities that have successfully implemented urban security strategies. This comparative approach facilitated the identification of key success factors and potential challenges in adapting similar measures to the specific socio-economic and infrastructural conditions of Zagreb. Furthermore, the research incorporated spatial data analysis to identify high-risk areas, enabling a targeted and evidence-based approach to urban security planning and intervention.
3. MAIN RESULTSThe findings emphasize the critical role of citizen participation in shaping community policies, enhancing the flow of information, ensuring accountability, and improving legal procedures. By actively involving residents, the strategy aims to empower those most affected by public policies, fostering a more inclusive and responsive urban security framework. A key concept underlying the strategy is "security governance." The Strategy of Urban Security of the City of Zagreb was developed by a working group of experts from various fields. This group collaborated closely with the City Office for Local Self-Government, Transport, Civil Protection, and Security to ensure a comprehensive and practical approach tailored to the city's specific needs. The Strategy of Urban Security of the City of Zagreb addresses a broad spectrum of security concerns, focusing on the following key areas: Public Transport and Traffic Security, Health and Environmental Protection, Safe and Accessible Public Spaces and Crime Prevention, Protection From Natural and Technological Disasters, Strengthening Social Cohesion, Solidarity, and Inclusivity, Counter-Terrorism and Radicalization Prevention, Information and Cybersecurity and Energy Security and Renewable Energy Use. The strategy defines measures for 2025 - 2030 through cooperation, coordination, and stakeholder participation to enhance resilience and preparedness for unforeseen events. It promotes multisectoral collaboration and evidence-based decision-making to strengthen Zagreb’s security framework and crisis response. In addition, the findings highlight the importance of public awareness campaigns and educational initiatives to enhance citizens' understanding of urban security. Technological advancements, including AI-driven threat detection and smart urban infrastructure, are key to mitigating risks. Additionally, emergency response frameworks, such as rapid intervention teams and inter-agency cooperation, form a cornerstone of the strategy
Media coverage of the migrant crisis in Bosnia and Herzegovina: How the narative shapes the perception of mixed migration
No full textThe migrant crisis in Europe, which has been ongoing since 2015, has not passed by Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH). It is estimated that between the beginning of 2018 and the beginning of 2025, more than 150,000 irregular migrants have passed through BiH on their way to European Union (EU) countries as their final destination. BiH has been faced with an increased influx of migrants or mixed migration flows, which has brought a variety of challenges and problems. The relevant institutions were not sufficiently prepared to respond to this crisis, and political actors imposed not only crisis communication, carried by the media, but also a sense of (de)stabilization and (in)security through a securitization approach. The question is whether the concept of securitization has prevailed in the media space, whether these issues have caused problems at the domestic level, and to what extent has it influenced the general perception of citizens about this phenomenon in Bosnia and Herzegovina? The aim of this paper is to analyze the statements of BiH political actors on mixed migration flows in BiH in the period from 01.07.2020 to 30.06.2021, the year in which the largest number of migrants resided in BiH, and the research included an analysis of 20 BiH media and their 1,065 publications
AMOK – The most complex threat to hybrid public places
No full textThis paper analyzes and examines the specificities of police tactics in so-called AMOK situations (The state of uncontrolled rage or violence, often associated with insane destruction or attacks) characterized by extreme violence perpetrated by one or more individuals who randomly and uncontrollably endanger the lives and safety of people in specific circumstances within hybrid (quasi) public places.
AMOK situations, due to their extremely negative impact on citizen safety, as well as public and national security, warrant special attention and obligate police and other security services to systematically monitor, as well as to follow crisis protocols for response and intervention.
These crisis events are sudden and difficult to predict, involving the deadly use of firearms or bladed weapons. Recently, various motor vehicles have also been used, resulting in mass casualties and significant threats to the safety of public facilities and spaces.
In evaluating the adequacy of police responses and tactics in resolving such situations, the key variable is the attackers – perpetrators who usually experience psychological difficulties, social isolation, and motivations linked to revenge, radical ideologies, terrorism, or personal frustrations, regardless of their social status. Victims are primarily located within hybrid public spaces, including students, passersby, employees, or visitors. The targets may be specific individuals and facilities, or the violence may be entirely random and arbitrary.
AMOK situations typically progress through several stages: the preparatory phase, the execution phase, and the opposing phase, which includes intervention, neutralization of the attacker, and the post-crisis phase. It is important to emphasize that the quick reaction of potential victims, following the "RUN, FIGHT, or HIDE" strategy, along with efficient evacuation, is crucial until law enforcement arrives.
Thus, within a dichotomous structure, this analysis not only provides a conceptual and theoretical framework but also includes a case study based on a sample of several (three to five) selected, typical AMOK incidents. These cases are analyzed according to a specially designed methodological pattern – a matrix comprising an optimal number (7–9) of variables, whose description facilitates the discussion of patterns and specificities of each case.
The ultimate goal of this paper is to assess the effectiveness of applied police tactics based on the identified patterns of events and responses, with the assumption of validating and implementing best practices. These practices should not only address crisis resolution but also enhance preventive measures, ultimately strengthening public safety and mitigating the harmful consequences of such incidents
Personalizing the travel experience through AI: Exploring the impact of AI-driven technologies on travellers satisfaction in emerging tourism markets
No full textIntroduction
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the tourism industry by transforming how travelers interact with services, receive information, and personalize their experiences. AI-powered technologies such as recommender systems, chatbots, upselling tools, and context-aware digital assistants are becoming integral to enhancing customer experience in tourism (Tussyadiah, 2020). In emerging tourism markets like Kosovo, such developments are still nascent but rapidly gaining momentum. Online travel agencies in Kosovo have recently adopted AI-powered upselling email systems that tailor travel suggestions to clients’ preferences, budget, language, and local weather conditions. These systems go beyond promotional messaging, offering curated experiences and practical guidance, thus shaping a more engaging and trust-enhancing digital customer journey (Lopes et al., 2025; Sağbaş & Aydogan, 2025). Despite these advancements, there is limited empirical evidence exploring how these AI-driven technologies impact traveler satisfaction and the psychological processes that mediate or moderate this relationship. This study aims to fill this gap by developing and testing a conceptual model based on Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) (Davis, 1989) and Experience Economy Theory (Pine & Gilmore, 1999).
Methodology
A structured survey was conducted among 347 domestic and international travelers in Kosovo who interacted with AI-powered tourism services. The conceptual framework includes AI-driven Personalization (AIP) as the primary independent variable influencing perceptions of Trust in AI (TAI), Perceived Usefulness (PU), Perceived Ease of Use (PEU), and Perceived Value (PV). PU and PEU serve as antecedents to Technology Readiness (TR), while PV is the mediating pathway leading to Traveler Satisfaction (TS). TR is positioned as a moderating variable, strengthening the PV → TS relationship. The constructs were measured using multi-item Likert scales adapted from validated sources. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was used to test direct paths, mediation via bootstrapping, and moderation via interaction terms and multi-group analysis. Reliability and validity were assessed through Cronbach’s Alpha, Composite Reliability, AVE, and model fit indices (CFI, TLI, RMSEA, SRMR).
Main Results and Discussion
The SEM results confirmed all hypothesized relationships. AI-driven personalization significantly influenced TAI, PU, PEU, and PV (p < 0.001), supporting the theoretical assumption that personalization enhances perceived relevance and trust (Wüst & Bremser, 2025; Sağbaş & Aydogan, 2025). PU and PEU positively impacted TR (p < 0.01), suggesting that user perceptions of ease and usefulness are critical in shaping digital readiness (Vena-Oya et al., 2024). TAI had a strong influence on PV (p < 0.001), which in turn was a significant predictor of TS (p < 0.001). The mediation analysis indicated that the path from AIP to TS is significantly mediated through TAI and PV. Furthermore, moderation analysis showed that TR significantly moderates the PV–TS relationship, with stronger effects observed among high-TR individuals. Model fit indices were satisfactory (CFI=0.945, TLI=0.932, RMSEA=0.061, SRMR=0.048), confirming the robustness of the model. These findings align with earlier work highlighting the importance of personalization, value co-creation, and digital readiness in enhancing traveler experience (Fusté-Forné & Jamal, 2021; Lopes et al., 2025).
Conclusion
This study provides empirical evidence on the role of AI-driven personalization in shaping traveler satisfaction, mediated by trust and perceived value, and moderated by technology readiness. It offers both theoretical contributions and practical implications for tourism stakeholders in emerging markets. Policymakers and businesses should prioritize AI investments that enhance personalization and digital engagement while supporting digital literacy among travelers.
Sava – altered course and submerged facts: The myth about the lack of crisis communication during the great Zagreb flood of 1964 circulating for six decades
No full textExtended summary:
The flood caused by the overflowing of the Sava River on the night from 25 to 26 October 1964 is considered by most expert sources and in various scientific fields, areas and branches to be the largest recorded natural disaster to hit Zagreb. A total of 17 lives lost were recorded, while 40000 people were left homeless, and a third of the city area at the time was flooded. The damage was wide-spread, of material nature and one that cannot be measured in terms of the economy, which is why the great affliction quickly became a major disaster.
Documentary accounts of this crisis situation continue to emphasize, among other, that the water level of the Sava River had been rising since the morning hours, that no alarm had been sounded, and paradoxically, the Croatian Radio and Television, in its own productions, has repeatedly emphasized over the decades that “the news was announced too late on the radio and television”, conveying the impression that “...no one had cared enough to prevent the disaster.” (Croatian Radio and Television, 2014).
In contrast, a facsimile of the Radio Zagreb news broadcast live on 25 October 1964 at 1:30 p.m. shows that this medium publicly announced that Zagreb was in danger, comparing the current circumstances with the flood of 1933 and the possibility of similar or more severe consequences. Furthermore, information was simultaneously transmitted about an emergency meeting of the then City Flood Defence Headquarters, which was held in the morning hours, and the expected evacuation of the population from the areas at risk of flooding if the water level did not decrease, was also unequivocally announced. The emergency broadcasting of Radio Zagreb began precisely with these announcements, which completely adapted its programme to the current situation in a manner that “warned of the gravity of the situation”. Radio Sljeme also joined the public crisis communication, with announcements at 4:30 p.m., and an analysis of the recordings from that time shows that the radio programme, which at that time lasted between noon and 5 p.m. daily, was not interrupted for the first time and was broadcast for 72 hours continuously on the frequencies of as many as three stations. These efforts were made to ensure the greatest possible reach of the information broadcast on the radio, because for most people in the areas affected by the flood, the radio was the “only connection to the world” (Kreutz, 1964). Speed, accessibility and the lowest technical requirements compared to other channels for transmitting information are the main characteristics of this medium (Sapunar, 2000), which is why radio waves remain to this day the primary model of individual and mass communication in emergency situations despite the development of modern technologies and communication platforms.
However, sound that is aired, if additional technologies and devices are not used, will not be saved and is therefore not suitable as a primary source of data for subsequent reconstructions and chronological reviews of phenomena and events. Up until the period of informatization and digitalization, social events, especially those of historical significance, were recorded due to printing techniques in which numerous, more or less important narratives were preserved, which have been interpreted and transmitted differently over time.
Owing to the consequences of the disaster, i.e. the damage that had occurred, and technical reasons, on the day of the 1964 flood, for the first time in the history of the city since the beginning of newspaper printing in Zagreb, no newspapers were published (“The Vjesnik newspaper building suffers extensive damage”, 1964), so numerous activities of key stakeholders and relevant city services from the period immediately before the culmination of the crisis remained unknown to the general public. The claim that over time, even the greatest disasters with catastrophic consequences can be displaced from collective memory if they were not previously adequately recorded, is certainly supported by the facts surrounding the torrential flood caused by the Medveščak stream in 1651, when three times more lives were lost compared to the flood of the Sava River in 1964! Namely, on the day of the tragedy on 26 July, as many as 52 people, in a city with significantly fewer inhabitants than in 1964, lost their lives, and a significant part of the inhabited and uninhabited area was devastated (Fagač, 2018). At that time, there were no newspaper publications to directly record the event; the first newspaper in Zagreb was printed 184 years later and has been published in the Croatian language since 1835 (Narodne novine (Official Gazette), 2025).
An analysis of newspaper and electronic media publications and original documents related to the Sava River flood indicates a gap in the objective transmission of the event. Television, as expected, transmits the most powerful depictions of tragedies and the scale of disasters using images, which is its comparative advantage. Radio serves the function of quickly transmitting information, instructions and, in this specific case, two-way exchange of messages during a crisis situation. Newspapers are mainly focused on topics related to the recovery from the consequences of a crisis, and integrate a descriptive, educational and broader informative component, including political communication and even commercial advertising. Considering the social order of the time and the high political positions of the key and responsible individuals from that period, it was expected that public media communication would focus on disaster recovery activities and mitigating the consequences of the crisis. The journalistic engagement did not go unnoticed, but after the flood, there was no detailed account, nor was pre-crisis communication thoroughly analysed. In the “Poplava” (The Flood) documentary film by director and screenwriter Bogdan Žižić, filmed the same year, the time and events that preceded the disaster were not mentioned once in its 25-minute duration. From the newspaper archives, an announcement from 4 November 1964 stands out, in which, although under a title that considers the flood to be a series of tragic circumstances, there is an interview with experts from the Hydrological Department of the Hydrometeorological Institute, who revealed that the Institute had warned of the danger and the need for extraordinary defence against a possible flood on 15 October, i.e. ten days before the crisis (Večernji list, 1964). Did just one day without newspaper articles contribute to the absence of relevant facts and the occurrence of later misinterpretations and incorrect conclusions about the measures taken, or the communication and operational processes implemented before and during the crisis event, as well as potential manipulations in public discourse, for which responsibility was shifted from crisis management and governance to crisis communication processes?
1 RESEARCH SUBJECT AND METHODS
This paper explores the employment of communication practices immediately before and during the Great Zagreb Flood of 1964, the role of the media in that crisis situation, and the influence of press releases on the transmission of that event throughout history. The aim of the paper is to identify the communication activities that resulted in the mobilization of individuals and groups, and the practical actions of emergency services, to detect the level of organisation of the activities that were carried out, and to link them with the actions of the relevant services. A special research interest is focused on the concept of institutional memory, the creation of a public narrative based on permanently accessible records, and the use of acquired experience for the purpose of strengthening the crisis standard.
In accordance with the above, the following hypotheses were set:
H1: Despite common claims, the population of Zagreb was warned about the danger of the 1964 flood through the media.
H2: The lack of preserved media releases led to inaccurate historical representations of the event.
H3: The experience of the 1964 crisis greatly influenced the development of safety standards and flood protection systems.
During the research, several scientific and research methods were used, as well as various data sources, including primary ones. The descriptive method was utilised to describe relevant facts and observed processes, while the content analysis method was used to collect data from a range of relevant materials. The comparative method was utilised to compare related facts and information bearing similarities. Given the importance of historical sources, the historical research method and the case study methodology were also applied. The inductive method was utilised to reach conclusions about general judgements, and the deductive method was utilised to draw individual conclusions in the paper.
The results of this research can serve as guidelines for improving the practice of crisis communication, regulating media standards for reporting during threats, and formalizing procedures in the concept of modern crisis management and communication.
2 PRINCIPAL CONCLUSIONS
Despite the lack of documentary and archival information about crisis communication immediately before and during the Great Zagreb Flood of 1964, which was significantly affected by the interruption in the printing of daily newspapers, an in-depth analysis of media information content and relevant materials undoubtedly leads to the conclusion that, despite numerous technical obstacles, and owing primarily to radio communication, a fair level of public information about the crisis was achieved and, as much as possible, an even larger disaster was prevented. It has been confirmed that, despite earlier differing assumptions, the public had been warned of the possible danger. It has also been indisputably confirmed that public communication led to the mobilisation of individuals and legal entities, ensured communication continuity as a prerequisite for organising operational activities and, to a significant extent, rescued and guided citizens during the crisis. Based on the evidence collected, it can be concluded that crisis communication has been held responsible for the insufficient level of crisis management, but the strategic activities that followed the disaster had a significant impact on raising the safety standard in the area of flood defence of the Croatian capital, as well as the adoption of more specific protocols and the formal organisation of the entire field of expertise
ESG and social responsibility: How companies shape a better future
No full textIn the context of global challenges related to climate change, growing social inequalities and the need for responsible corporate governance, sustainability is emerging as a key priority in business strategies. The coming period will mark significant changes in the global approach to sustainability. Through innovation, regulation and governance, companies are playing a significant role in shaping a more sustainable future and responding to the most pressing global challenges by implementing ESG standards (E-Environmental, S-Social, G-Governance) and adopting a more responsible approach to society (CSR-Corporate Social Responsibility).
Environmental thematic standards explain how companies manage their impact on climate change, energy and water use, biodiversity and ecosystems, how they manage waste, how they use other resources and contribute to the circular economy. The transition from traditional to sustainable practices involves implementing green practices such as switching to renewable energy sources, reducing carbon footprint, designing products with a lower environmental impact.
Social standards cover a company`s relationships with employees, customers, suppliers, owners and the communities in which they operate. They address diversity and inclusion, fair working conditions, respect for children´s and human rights, health and safety at work, and contributions to local communities.
Governance standards refer to how a company is managed, including business ethics, transparency, control and accountability systems. This includes governance structures, anti-corruption measures, the protection of owners, transparent reporting, respect for labour and human rights, and the management of sustainability-related risks and opportunities. Managing in alignment with the elements of sustainability is very important for ensuring stability and security, and it affects a company ability to attract investment and the trust of investors, especially institutional ones.
Over the last decade, due to alarming data related to climate change, several initiatives and legislative frameworks have been adopted:
Paris Climate Agreement focus on issues related to climate change and limiting global warming. In force since 2016.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are seventeen global goals and 169 sub-goals that are focused on addressing the causes of poverty and the need for development at a global level. They were adopted in 2015 with targets set for 2030.
European Green Deal an EU growth strategy adopted in 2019 with the ultimate goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2050.
Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive CSRD (EU 2022/2426), sets a more modern and rigorous framework for corporate sustainability reporting, based on the European Sustainability Reporting Standard.
Taxonomy Regulation (EU 2020/852) establishes a framework for facilitating sustainable investments and amendments to Regulation (EU) 2019/2088.
European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) define the information companies are required to report.
Delegated Regulation determines the content and presentation of information on environmentally sustainable economic activities, as well as the methodology for reporting obligations.
Delegated Climate Regulation (EU 2021/2139) defines technical screening criteria for determining whether an activity contributes to climate change mitigation or adaptation, without causing significant harm to other environmental objectives.
Delegated Regulation on the Environment (EU 2023/2486) defines technical screening criteria under which it is determined under what conditions an economic activity is considered to contribute significantly to one of the remaining four environmental objectives – circular economy, protection of water and seas, protection of biodiversity and ecosystem, and prevention and control of potential pollution.
Regulation on Deforestation-Free Products (EU 2023/1115) imposes due diligence and traceability obligations on companies placing certain products on the EU market or exporting them, to prevent deforestation and forest degradation.
Directive on Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence (EU 2024/1760) requires large companies to conduct due diligence on their operations and value chains concerning human rights and environmental protection.
Companies that integrate ESG standards into their operations can contribute to shape a better future in several ways:
Innovation and resilience-the implementation of ESG standards affects the introduction of new business models, technological progress and stimulates innovation. It brings companies resilience to environmental shocks and faster market adaptation, but also influences the creation of market conditions.
Trust of investors and investment institutions-Sustainable practices improve access to capital by reducing risk and making companies more attractive to investors, banks, and insurers.
Attracting and retaining talent-ESG strengthens employer branding and appeals to employees, especially younger generations who prioritize ethical, transparent, and socially responsible employers. Adequate working conditions, fair pay, and benefits also promote employees´ economic well-being, indirectly benefiting their families and contributing to a more prosperous society.
Customer loyalty and market differentiation-Today´s consumers, especially Generation Z, are oriented towards “green” products with clear information about the entire supply chain and the characteristics or composition of the product. Thus, sustainability, ethic and transparency become important differentiation in the market.
Credibility and public image-Companies that genuinely invest part of their profits in addressing societal or environmental challenges gain a reputation as leaders and socially responsible entities, which improves both customer and employee loyalty and positively impacts profitability.
In addition to these benefits, companies also face challenges in integrating ESG elements into their business processes. Developing an ESG strategy requires in-depth analysis and, based on the findings, changes in operations and cross-sector collaboration. Thus, in turn, demands investment in employee and stakeholder education (e.g., suppliers, communication strategies, and avoiding misleading claims (greenwashing), which can result in reputational damage and regulatory sanctions.
In practice, companies often face subjectivity in the assessment of ESG factors, which leads to the questionable quality of ESG information, the lack of clear standards, and the limited availability of data.
The main goal of this paper is to show how S-social components in ESG strategies contribute to the creation a more sustainable future and plays a key role in successful business and profitability in the service of creating long-term value and positive changes in society
Crisis management in a learning organization
No full textA key characteristic of a learning organization is its ability to cope with change, including, in this context, with crisis situations. Crisis situations are events characterized by factors such as suddenness, limited time for decision-making, threats to organizational goals, uncertainty, unpredictability, limited control, and impact on future operations. The timing of various types of crises cannot be fully predicted, which is why one of the essential traits of an organization is taking preventive action in the context of preparing for and reflecting on ways to respond and act during different crisis situations. This is also one of the key tasks of crisis management. As part of preventive action, crisis management must reassess and analyze past experiences, both internal and external, and apply the lessons learned during the planning and preparation phases for potential crises. Learning from crises represents organizational behavior aligned with the concept of a learning organization. Such learning contributes to organizational effectiveness, but it must become an integral part of the organization’s culture.
Examining and adopting all organizational activities that proved effective in controlling and resolving a crisis, as well as changing or abandoning inadequate and ineffective procedures, is part of the learning phase whose contribution is reflected in future preventive efforts.
The aim of this paper is to emphasize the importance of preventive action and systematic preparation for various types of crises, with special attention given to adopting the ideas and organizational behavior consistent with the concept of a learning organization
Fostering national inter-agency cooperation in disaster risk reduction for cultural heritage in Croatia through the CPforHERITAGE project
No full textThe 2020 Zagreb and Petrinja earthquakes, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, exposed significant gaps in Croatia’s disaster preparedness for cultural heritage. To address them, the CPforHERITAGE project was launched in 2024 to strengthen inter-agency collaboration between civil protection and cultural heritage sectors. Key activities included developing joint SOPs, conducting interdisciplinary training, and future cooperation planning. The project produced a mid-term DRR strategy for cultural heritage with measurable outcomes, positioning Croatia on level for an integrated DRM for cultural heritage with other European best practices
Addressing Risks for Cultural Heritage in Risk Assessments - Is there any?
Get PDFWhen talking about disaster risks, cultural heritage is usually not taken into account—either globally or nationally. Yet, heritage sites are increasingly affected by floods, fires, earthquakes, and other hazards. Despite growing awareness, very few World Heritage properties have developed proper disaster risk reduction plans. Policy-makers, both in cultural and civil protection sectors, tend to focus on what they perceive as “real” priorities, while the vulnerability of heritage is often acknowledged only after a disaster—when it is too late.
In Croatia, civil protection legislation includes cultural property protection, yet major strategic documents rarely engage with it meaningfully. This article examines the extent to which cultural heritage is addressed in disaster risk assessments by analysing three selected Croatian cathedrals—Dubrovnik, Rijeka, and Đakovo—and corresponding local risk assessments. Using ICCROM’s Vulnerability and Capacity Assessment (VCA), adapted for the Croatian context, the aim was to highlight the gap between official planning and actual vulnerability. The results reveal consistent underrepresentation of cultural heritage in official frameworks and demonstrate the practical value of heritage-specific tools such as the VCA
Protection of Cultural Property in Crisis Conditions in the City of Zagreb
Get PDFThe protection of cultural heritage in crisis conditions requires a systematic analysis of threats, which are divided into natural (earthquake, flood, fire) and anthropogenic (theft, negligence, terrorism, mass unrest). The greatest danger to Zagreb’s cultural heritage comes from destructive earthquakes, flash floods, and fires, while terrorist attacks and mass unrest are less frequent but can cause significant damage. The key to the protection process is the categorization of materials according to their value and resistance to threats, as well as the assessment of internal and external risks, including location, storage method, and the security-logistical circumstances of the object. For optimal protection, it is necessary to assess the situation, identify the most valuable heritage, implement preventive measures, and regularly test emergency plans. Risk assessment is carried out using a color matrix, which clearly shows the level of threat and the need for additional protective measures