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Strengthening Germany's Disaster Resilience: BBK's Key Projects and Initiatives
Under the leadership of BBK President Ralph Tiesler, the Federal Office for Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance (BBK) is working tirelessly to fortify German society's resilience in the face of various disasters and threats. Here's a look at some of the key projects and initiatives that are shaping the BBK's strategic approach.
Refurbishment and Expansion of Civil Protection Shelters
Recognizing the growing demand for secure shelter space across diverse demographics, the BBK is focusing on refurbishing older bunkers and integrating new shelters into modern housing basements. Approximately 80% of projects involve the refurbishment of older private bunkers, while the remaining 20% focus on creating new shelters.
Enhancement of Crisis Communication via Digital Radio (DAB+)
In collaboration with public and private radio broadcasters and device manufacturers, the BBK is developing a regionalised warning system using digital DAB+ radio technology. This system broadcasts spoken alert messages, accompanied by text and images, ensuring clear and understandable warnings tailored to specific affected areas. Features such as wake-up functions, automatic activation of radios, and precise location codes ensure rapid and targeted alert dissemination.
Disaster Health Literacy Development
The BBK is supporting research and development of tools aimed at improving public health communication in emergencies. Recent studies on disaster health literacy are enabling equitable and effective health messaging during crises.
Satcom Technology and Connectivity for Emergency Operations
Through contracts with technology providers like NSSLGlobal, the BBK is enhancing its communication infrastructure by integrating satellite communications hardware and 24/7 connectivity. This ensures dependable communication links vital for coordinated disaster response.
Additional Initiatives
The BBK is also investing in the MoWaS system, the NINA warning app, cell broadcasting, and the expansion of the siren network. Measuring technology for hazardous substances of all kinds will be acquired, and mobile water transport capacities will be created. New vehicles will be acquired for supplementary disaster protection, and the BBK plans pilot funding for the equipment of public places of refuge in the fiscal year 2026.
The BBK is working closely with the states, municipal structures, volunteer forces, and professional deployment forces to establish civilian population protection as the fourth pillar of the national security system. Campaigns for self-protection will be initiated to pass on emergency preparedness recommendations to the population.
Ralph Tiesler has been the President of the BBK since June 15, 2022, and Dr. René Funk has been the Vice President of the BBK since October 16, 2023. The BBK currently employs around 700 employees at its five locations. Redundancy is emphasized in water security projects for safety, and new drillings will be carried out if necessary to ensure the functionality of existing emergency water wells. The additional funds will be used to strengthen and maintain the population warning system at a high technological level, and training and further education in crisis management can be expanded with the help of the Federal Academy for Civil Protection and Civil Defense.
- In collaboration with the financial sector, the BBK might consider exploring potential funding strategies to support the expansion and modernization of civil protection shelters.
- As part of enhancing crisis communication, the BBK could also explore partnerships with financial institutions to subsidize the acquisition of digital radio technology for emergency operations.
