Civil protection in Germany: Generation Z in the crisis trap!

Civil protection in Germany: Generation Z in the crisis trap!

Deutschland - In Germany there are serious deficits in the area of ​​civil protection, as the Lieutenant General a.D. Martin Schelleis and Federal Representative of the Maltese for Crisis Resilience states. Despite the current threats, including hybrid warfare by Russia with hacking attacks and disinformation campaigns, the topic remains largely neglected in public awareness. Schelleis sharply criticizes the Federal Government for its inactivity and calls for a stronger responsibility for citizens and better preparation by public institutions. A Maltese volunteer monitor also shows that 75% of Germans recognize the importance of self -provision, but only 25% implement them. The neighboring countries like Sweden, on the other hand, continue here and offer information brochures for preparation for crisis.

Another step in the German security strategy could be the reintroduction of a compulsory compulsory. Federal Defense Minister Boris Pistorius positioned the concepts of "tuning" and "fortificance" in 2023. This was done at a time when the discussion about a new compulsory commitment gains driving, since generation z is also increasingly interested in security issues. Fear of war (81%) and social inequality (63%) are very popular. A current survey showed that the number of applicants in the Bundeswehr rose by 15% from 2023 to 2024.

civil protection and overall defense

In order to improve civil defense, Schelleis emphasizes the need for a billion dollar investment program, which, however, lacks transparency. He calls for a further development of overall defense that includes internal security and natural disasters. The discussion about the number of public bunkers is conducted; Schelleis believes that large bunker systems are no longer necessary. Rather, the focus should be on protection against selective air strikes, which meets the current military challenges.

The "New military service" initiative mentioned includes voluntary participation for young people aged 18 and over, which should fill out a questionnaire from the Bundeswehr. This reform is based on the Scandinavian model and aims to give young people the opportunity to give something back to society. This development is against the background of a impending new election in 2025 and the requirement of a social commitment of fresh interest.

Cooperation between civil and military organizations

Schelleis emphasizes the need for close cooperation between civil and military organizations in order to adequately cope with the diverse security threats. The challenges with which Germany is confronted require a temporary company service that offers all volunteers the opportunity to get involved. Such initiatives can not only protect bourgeois freedom, but also increase defense ability and strengthen social resilience.