OJS (University of Applied Sciences Velika Gorica)
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Innovative technologies for critical infrastructure resilience: Impact-informed governance in energy and water sectors
No full textCritical infrastructures (CIs) provide essential public services, including energy and water supply, transport services, and healthcare, which are vital for the functioning of society and the economy (Constantin et al., 2022). Given their strategic importance, CIs are considered (semi)public goods, requiring a comprehensive assessment of their broader societal impacts – both positive (e.g. economic growth, social well-being) and negative (e.g. service disruptions, environmental risks). The increasing integration of innovative technologies in CIs to enhance resilience during crises and normal operations necessitates a systematic approach to impact assessment that considers public benefits and associated costs.
Despite the widespread use of impact assessment methodologies to evaluate new technologies in organisations (Yurrita et al, 2022), studies focusing on public interest indicators in the governance of CI remain limited. This study applies an impact assessment framework developed within the SUNRISE project (the SUNRISE project, 2022; Zherdev et al, 2024) to examine how CIs in the energy and water sectors account for socio-economic and environmental effects in their decision-making. Given the significance of externalities – such as ensuring uninterrupted service supply, mitigating climate risks, and sustaining economic stability (Paoli et al, 2010) – the research integrates relevant social, economic, and environmental indicators to assess the implementation of novel technological solutions.
The analysis considers the multi-level impacts (micro, regional and national) of CI resilience strategies and evaluates how their operations align with EU and national policies on public service provision. Using policy analysis, qualitative interviews with CI operators, regulators, and experts, as well as survey data, the study identifies key challenges and opportunities in aligning technological innovation with governance frameworks. Findings highlight gaps and misalignments between current CI strategies and regulatory policies, offering evidence-based policy recommendations to enhance resilience and sustainable service provision
Problems of quantification the assessment of school endangerment
No full textThe paper presents a model for quantifying endangerment assessment, a methodology for quantifying endangerment assessment for schools, quantification goals of assessment and endangerment grading.
The factors which endanger schools (endangerment factors) and the security measures that can be applied (security factors) are analysed. Problems in determining endangerment factors and security factors and their assessment are presented.
An example of assessing an unacceptable degree of endangerment in school is presented, as well as possible interventions on endangerment factors and security factors to achieve an acceptable degree of endangerment in the school
Reconceptualizing the civil defence paradigm: Insights from European civil protection developments in the DPPI SEE member states
No full textBackground 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
Implementation of green computing in increasing ICT security
No full textGreen computing encompasses practices and technologies aimed at reducing the negative impact of ICT on the natural environment. The goal is to optimize energy performance, reduce carbon emissions, increase resource efficiency, and promote responsible disposal of electronic waste. All of this includes a wide range of activities, from the design of energy-efficient hardware components and the development of software that minimizes energy consumption, to the implementation of sustainable data center management strategies and the recycling of electronic devices. This paper describes the basics of green computing and the importance of its application for increasing ICT security
The role of social networks in crisis communication
No full textThis paper analyzes the role of social media in crisis communication, with a particular focus on the context of the Republic of Croatia. The aim of the research is to elucidate the potentials and challenges that social media present during crises, and to provide recommendations for effective and responsible management of communication under these conditions. In times of crisis, where information is often sensitive and urgent, social media become essential tools for the dissemination of messages as well as for interaction with the public. The study is grounded in a comprehensive theoretical framework that encompasses key concepts of crisis communication, media literacy, the phenomenon of misinformation, and the role of social media in shaping public opinion. By analyzing practical examples, the paper will explore how institutions have utilized these platforms for informing citizens, assessing crisis events, and managing situations requiring immediate communication. Particular attention will be paid to the communication strategies employed by the Croatian Institute of Public Health (HZJZ) and the Government of the Republic of Croatia during key crisis events, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the earthquakes in the Sisak-Moslavina County. This analysis will enable an assessment of the effectiveness of the communication strategies utilized and their impact on public trust.
Based on the research findings, the paper will offer guidelines for optimizing crisis communication, with an emphasis on the responsible and effective use of social media to ensure timely and accurate information for citizens during future crisis situations
Advanced technologies for forest fire risk assessment and propagation modelling
No full textWildfire management increasingly relies on the integration of advanced technologies for accurate risk assessment and predictive fire spread modeling. Considering the pronounced trend of rising wildfire frequency and intensity, particularly in climate-sensitive Mediterranean regions, timely and precise risk evaluation is crucial for enhancing preventive capacities, optimizing the allocation of operational resources in the field, and protecting critical infrastructure, natural assets, and human lives. Contemporary methodologies enable early detection of fire potential and support decision-making across all phases of fire management from preparedness and initial response to tactical coordination during suppression and post-fire recovery. Special emphasis is placed on the use of computational models and geospatial tools that facilitate dynamic, real-time assessment of fire behavior, thereby significantly improving operational responsiveness. Fire spread modeling software, such as BehavePlus, FlamMap, and FARSITE, plays a vital role in this process by simulating how fires propagate across complex terrain under varying weather and fuel conditions. These tools support strategic planning, real-time decision-making, and emergency interventions, making them indispensable in wildfire preparedness and management. Fire modeling relies on a combination of static and dynamic geospatial data. Static data such as elevation, slope, and aspect are usually obtained from Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) and remain constant over time. Dynamic data, including wind speed and direction, air humidity, and temperature, are sourced from meteorological services or predictive models like WRF, although such data may sometimes lack high spatial resolution at the local scale. One of the most complex and influential factors is vegetation structure and condition, including canopy type, fuel load, and moisture content. These parameters can be assessed using remote sensing technologies: multispectral satellite imagery (e.g., Sentinel-2 from the Copernicus program) enables the calculation of vegetation indices such as NDVI, while unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) equipped with RGB or LiDAR sensors provide high-resolution data on canopy height and density. To estimate the amount and condition of fuel, experts typically combine Canopy Height Models (CHMs), derived from LiDAR or photogrammetry, with vegetation activity data (e.g., NDVI) to model fuel volume and availability. Fuel bulk density values, defined according to vegetation type, are used to convert volumetric estimates into biomass mass, resulting in high-resolution fuel distribution maps expressed in kg/m2 or t/ha. These maps represent a fundamental tool for quantifying fire potential, and their spatial detail and tactical precision are essential for realistic fire spread simulations and effective operational fire planning. Such maps can be further enhanced by incorporating fuel moisture content, either based on field measurements or using moisture indices derived from remote sensing, providing a solid foundation for realistic fire behavior simulations. This comprehensive data processing and modeling system from terrain and weather analysis to fuel assessment based on remote sensing and fire behavior simulation constitutes the central theme of this paper
Crisis Management and Resilience of Critical Infrastructure: SUNRISE Project Insights
Get PDFCrisis management is often considered as the short-term, reactive strategy to handle emergencies, while critical infrastructure resilience is a long-term, proactive approach to reduce vulnerabilities and enhance stability. SUNRISE (Strategies and Technologies for United and Resilient Critical Infrastructures and Vital Services in Pandemic-Stricken Europe) is a project, co-funded by the European Commission, that considers lessons learned from COVID-19 pandemics, as well as the related challenges for critical infrastructures (CI) operators to come up with solutions that would help in improving their resilience. This paper explains the main project concepts and brings some insights about how to handle temporary operational conditions during unexpected rapid-onset events
Climate Anxiety Among Croatian Youth: Emotional and Behavioral Responses to the Climate Crisis
Get PDFClimate change is increasingly recognized not only as an environmental and socio-political issue but also as a significant psychological stressor, particularly among youth. These research results provide insights into how young people in Croatia perceive climate change, experience climate-related anxiety, and respond behaviorally to environmental challenges. Based on a mixed-methods approach, combining a literature review with a quantitative survey of 131 participants aged 18 to 25, the research examines levels of awareness, emotional responses, and the mental health impacts associated with climate change.
The results reveal limited familiarity with the term “climate anxiety.” Although most participants rated their knowledge of climate change as moderate, a considerable number reported experiencing worry, fear, and sleep disturbances related to climate concerns. Emotional reactions included fear (most dominant), followed by anger, sadness, and, to a lesser extent, hope. Many respondents also reported difficulties with concentration, changes in appetite, and a general decline in psychological well-being. The findings further indicate a strong belief in collective responsibility, with societal efforts viewed as more impactful than individual actions. While professional psychological support was rarely sought, many young people reported coping through conversations with friends or participation in environmental activities.
These findings underscore the importance of integrating climate change topics into formal education, enhancing psychosocial support structures, and promoting youth agency through participatory climate action. By placing the experiences of Croatian youth within the broader international context, these research results contribute to a deeper understanding of the emotional and behavioral dimensions of climate anxiety
Private Security Guards or Security and Civil Protection Workers as Future Guarantors of Safety in Elementary Schools
Get PDFAfter the latest incident at the Prečko elementary school, the level of security in elementary schools has once again become a priority security and social issue in the Republic of Croatia. Under pressure from parents and the general public, who, under the impression of the aforementioned incident, demanded strict supervision of elementary school buildings, the city of Zagreb, Pula and several other local communities hired security guards at the entrances to school buildings. However, immediately after the incident itself, doubts arose from the line ministry and several actors involved in the aforementioned issue, as to whether private security guards in schools are a sufficiently adequate and optimal solution. Following the above, in order to provide an argumentative explanation of the aforementioned dilemma, we will attempt to analyze possible threats and dangers in elementary schools, as well as the proposed security measures proposed by the ministry. In addition to the above, the subject of analysis will also be the protective activities of licensed security guards in accordance with their legal authorities, in proportion to future security and civil protection employees, in the capacity of new security officers in elementary schools proposed by the line ministry
A compact, AI-powered System for Rapid Decontamination During CBRNE Incidents
Get PDFEffective decontamination is critical in emergency response, yet traditional systems require extensive infrastructure, specialized personnel and significant logistical support, limiting their practicality in urgent scenarios. This Work-in-Progress (WiP) paper presents: i) the Fast Deployable Mass Decontamination system (FDMD), a novel decontamination tunnel designed for rapid deployment, operational flexibility and ease of use in various emergency response environments, and ii) the DECON Body Pose Estimation Tool (DBPET), a camera-based AI-driven image-analysis system that tracks body posture in real-time, integrated with the FDMD to ensure optimal decontamination coverage. Utilizing integrated speakers, the DBPET provides automated, step-by-step instructions to guide individuals and minimize body posture error based on international standards. Additionally, its multilingual support enhances accessibility, enabling clear communication in high-stress environments. FDMD incorporates three interchangeable sets of sprinklers, supporting both wet and dry decontamination methods based on the nature of the contamination. The system features a lightweight, modular structure that enables quick assembly with minimal training requirements, while minimizing its storage in a large suitcase. This paper examines the decontamination process and systems and outlines the FDMD’s and DBPET’s design, key technological components, initial experimental validation efforts and expected impact and benefits. Preliminary assessments focus on deployment speed, body posture efficiency and operational scalability. Future work will expand on performance testing, field trials and integration with other technological tools under development (e.g. Digital Triage Tag) and within emergency response frameworks. By addressing current decontamination challenges, FDMD integrated with the DBPET aim to provide an efficient, cost-effective, rapidly deployable and adaptable solution for first responders (FRs), experts and non-experts managing CBRNE incidents