Collaboration is key to effective civil protection. To ensure a safer, more equal future for the EU, 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 the civil protection domain 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?
My first experiences in civil protection were when I was around seven or eight years old and I became a member of the voluntary fire brigade for the municipality where I live. Later, after I graduated with a master’s degree, I started professional training in the state administrative body responsible for civil protection. That is where I encountered civil protection as a system.
What is your role, and what are you doing on a daily basis?
I work in the office of the Director at the Directorate for Civil Protection in the Ministry of the Interior. In my role as Supervisor for Coordination, I prepare various documents to meet the Director’s needs. This means that I handle a large amount of information and data related to the Directorate´s business.
Do you see yourself staying involved in civil protection for a long time? What would you like to be doing in the future?
I have worked in civil protection for four years so far. I see myself continuing to work in this area, but maybe in the field. Working in the office is interesting, but I love to help in real situations on the ground.
What are the issues that matter most to you? Are you able to get involved with these issues as part of your job or volunteer role?
The most important thing to me is that the system works for everyone, regardless of their position. All roles in the pyramid are important – none can function without the other. I am doing the best I can from my position, and it will be the same if I change my job in civil protection, or anything else. I will always do my best.
Was there a particular person in the community that you found/find inspiring that motivated you to take this path?
No, but I do think that there are a lot of people in Croatia who are extremely professional in what they do, and who work as best as they can to protect citizens.
How do you think the Union Civil Protection Mechanism should evolve?
I think the UCPM is going in the right direction, especially in terms of financing projects that are extremely important for the development of national civil protection systems, and accordingly, the strengthening of forces at EU level. I consider the training that I specifically participated in (from the UCPM Knowledge Network) extremely useful, because it is very important to be familiar with information and the concept of civil protection at the EU level, as well as at the national level.
What advice would you give to people who want to get involved in civil protection or disaster management?
I would advise them to get involved and try to test themselves in that area. We are witnessing increasing weather extremes and climate change, which are bringing many extraordinary situations. All forces are therefore important, from citizens, who we must educate about the risks of disasters, to volunteers, management groups, and operational forces in the field.
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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