CivPro-LiNC at ISCRAM 2026
The CivPro-LiNC project was proud to participate in the ISCRAM Conference 2026 in The Hague, one of the leading international forums for research and practice in information systems for crisis response and management.
Under the conference theme, “Building Stronger Futures,” ISCRAM 2026 brought together researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and industry representatives to address the growing and interconnected risks facing societies today. The conference explored challenges arising from natural hazards, cybersecurity threats, artificial intelligence, critical infrastructure vulnerabilities, public health emergencies, and climate change. Particular attention was given to understanding compound risks that increasingly affect multiple sectors simultaneously and require coordinated, multi-stakeholder responses.
A recurring theme throughout the conference was the importance of a whole-of-society approach to crisis management. While professional emergency services remain essential, resilience depends increasingly on the active involvement of citizens, community organizations, businesses, and other societal actors. Engaging these stakeholders enables crisis managers to better understand and influence the social dynamics of emergencies while drawing on the diverse resources and capabilities available across society.
As part of the conference programme, the CivPro-LiNC project was presented in the Practitioner Insights and Perspectives (PiP) Track, which focuses on bridging the gap between research and operational practice. The presentation showcased the project's experiences and lessons learned, highlighting stakeholder engagement activities, practitioner interviews, and the development of a liaison officer training programme designed to strengthen cross-border civil protection preparedness and operational coordination in European border regions.
The presentation provided an opportunity to share how CivPro-LiNC is addressing current challenges in civil protection by fostering stronger cooperation between organizations and improving the skills and preparedness of professionals involved in cross-border emergency response.
A particular highlight of the conference was the opportunity to engage with other research initiatives working on complementary challenges in information systems for crisis response and management. These exchanges offered valuable insights into current developments, practical implementation experiences, and emerging opportunities for future cooperation.
Discussions focused on several key topics, including:
- Common challenges faced by crisis management and civil protection projects
- Future opportunities for research and innovation
- Ways to strengthen connections between projects, organizations, and stakeholders
- Strategies for bridging the gap between academic research and operational practice
The dialogue with researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and end users reinforced the importance of collaboration in translating research outcomes into tangible improvements for crisis management and civil protection. Such exchanges are essential for ensuring that innovative solutions are not only scientifically sound but also operationally relevant and impactful.
The conference provided an excellent platform for sharing experiences, building new connections, and contributing to the advancement of resilience and crisis management practices across Europe and beyond.
Through its participation in ISCRAM 2026, CivPro-LiNC continues to support stronger cross-border cooperation, enhanced preparedness, and more effective civil protection capabilities for the challenges of the future.
