The panel will explore the expectations that different actors – the state, local authorities and citizens – have when it comes to civil protection. Can people manage on their own during a crisis until help arrives? How much can families and neighbours rely on one another? And are households actually prepared with enough emergency supplies to last for at least seven days?

At the Opinion Festival, we will discuss where responsibility for crisis preparedness lies – with the state, local government, apartment associations or individuals themselves – and, more importantly, how to turn expectations and good intentions into practical action.

“Crisis preparedness should not be a privilege available only to those who have more money, space, time and knowledge. Individuals are an important part of preparedness, but they are not the whole system. Preparedness is also about much more than what people buy and store at home. It is reflected in the kind of cities, communities and living environments we create,” said Hannes Nagel, Head of the Crisis Research Centre.