Collaboration is key to effective civil protection. To ensure a safer, more equal future, a new generation of civil protection experts with a wide range of attributes, skills and knowledge must work together. In this series, we talk to young professionals in civil protection and disaster management to find out about their roles, motivations, and advice for others who want to work in this field.
What motivated you to get involved in civil protection/disaster management?
Since my childhood, I have observed disasters take place all over the world in the media, and in person. This scared me, but also made me want to help prevent and manage these disasters. I was inspired by the people working in civil protection and disaster management.
What is your role, and what are you doing on a daily basis?
In my role, I collect, process and share data, reports and other information on serious incidents. I also support cooperation with international, regional and national civil protection and disaster management institutions, organisations and NGOs, and coordinate activities with the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, the United Nations and NATO.
In my work as a civil aviation Search and Rescue Mission Coordinator (SMC), I coordinate and monitor search and rescue operations. Finally, I help to organise international teams and aid, and prepare reports, analyses and informational materials on the scope of the Directorate’s work.
Do you see yourself staying involved in civil protection for a long time? What would you like to be doing in the future?
At this moment, I believe I can contribute a lot to the civil protection system. I want to progress further in this field, which will require long-term commitment. In terms of my future profession, I hope to advance to the level of a decision-maker in the civil protection or disaster risk management system.
What are the issues that matter most to you? Are you able to get involved with these issues as part of your role?
What matters the most to me is involvement in the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. In Montenegro, there is a low level of social awareness and poor social responsibility. The civil protection system is not at the same standard as other places in the world. My focus is therefore on the EU Civil Protection Mechanism itself.
The EU’s approach to disasters comes from core values which start with the most important subject in protection and rescue – citizens. Human beings who, as socially responsible people, are active participants in all events within their community, especially when it is threatened. I think that the model of connecting and networking with as many people as possible from different countries, both in Europe and in other regions worldwide, as well as at all levels of social life, is a good way to develop the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. Through education of citizens and staff training, we can encourage the creation of a new generation to take their place within protection and rescue systems.
What advice would you give to people who want to get involved in civil protection or disaster management?
As this profession is one of the most human-focused at this level of social action, the main piece of advice I would them is to have a strong spirit for solidarity and working very closely with others.
The Knowledge Network editorial team is here to share the news and stories of the Knowledge Network community. We'd love to hear your news, events and personal stories about your life in civil protection and disaster risk management. If you've got a story to share, please contact us.
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