The ProSafeNet Training Hub is coming soon – a new digital environment designed to help professionals, students and institutions build real, practical skills for the challenges of safety, security, risk and emergency management. Inside the Training Hub, users will be able to learn through structured online courses, join live trainings and webinars led by experts, and experience scenario-based exercises that simulate real-world incidents and decision-making. The platform will also offer specialized train-the-trainer programs, enabling future instructors to develop their own high-quality training modules. All educational content will be supported by a rich resource library containing presentations, guides, checklists, manuals and video materials. Every completed activity will be recorded through a certification and progress-tracking system that allows users to document their professional development and share verified achievements. From introductory modules to advanced professional programs, the Training Hub will set a new standard for accessible, effective and internationally relevant training. Explore the new ProSafeNet Training Hub soon. www.prosafenet.com media@prosafenet.com

Signing of Memorandum of Strategic Cooperation between ProSafeNet and the Faculty of Security – Skopje, “St. Kliment Ohridski” University – Bitola We are pleased to announce that an official Memorandum of Strategic, Professional, and Academic Cooperation has been signed between the international platform ProSafeNet (https://prosafenet.com) and the Faculty of Security in Skopje, “St. Kliment Ohridski” University – Bitola (https://fb.uklo.edu.mk/). The agreement was formally signed by: Prof. Dr. Jonče Ivanovski Dean of the Faculty of Security – Skopje Prof. Dr. Vladimir M. Cvetković Director of ProSafeNet and President of the Scientific-Professional Society for Disaster Risk Management This agreement marks a significant step forward in strengthening regional and international cooperation in the fields of safety, security, risk management, crisis response, and resilience building. It establishes a long-term partnership aimed at enhancing academic programs, exchanging knowledge and best practices, engaging students and faculty in international initiatives, and jointly developing innovative educational and professional activities. Through this agreement, the Faculty of Security has been granted permanent Premium access to the ProSafeNet platform, enabling the full use of advanced digital tools, institutional profiling, publishing academic and professional events, working with students and alumni, accessing analytical insights, and receiving continuous technical and content support. ProSafeNet extends sincere appreciation to the leadership of the Faculty of Security for their trust, forward-thinking vision, and commitment to advancing modern academic and professional standards in the field of security. This partnership sets the foundation for developing a regional center of excellence, strengthening capacities for education and practice, and fostering international cooperation in critical areas of contemporary security and risk governance. We are confident that this cooperation will contribute to building a modern professional ecosystem in which science, practice, innovation, and social responsibility reinforce one another in the service of a safer and more resilient society. This agreement stands as an […]

Teaching the Course “Preventive Planning and Protective Measures in the Surroundings of Industrial Plants” as Adjunct Professor It was a great pleasure to work with one outstanding group of international master’s students within the course “Preventive Planning and Protective Measures in the Surroundings of Industrial Plants (580.337)” at the Technical University (Montanuniversität) of Leoben in Austria, Department of Environmental and Energy Process Engineering – Safety & Disaster Management (SDM), where I serve as an Adjunct Professor. This master-level course provides an in-depth understanding of the entire spectrum of industrial and technological hazards that may arise within industrial facilities and their surrounding environments — including fires and explosions, toxic and corrosive releases, structural failures, domino effects, and natural hazard-triggered (NaTech) events such as earthquakes, floods, and extreme winds. The course begins by introducing students to the concept and classification of industrial disasters, covering technological, NaTech, and domino events. Students explore their causes — technical failures, design errors, human and organizational factors, and external natural triggers — and their consequences for people, infrastructure, and the environment, such as toxic releases, overpressure, fires, and cascading failures. Building on this foundation, students are trained in hazard identification and risk assessment, using qualitative and quantitative methods supported by geospatial tools and sensor data. They learn to design preventive and protective measures, including engineering barriers (containment, detection, pressure relief), management procedures (standard operating procedures, lockout–tagout), personal protection, and off-site solutions such as land-use planning, evacuation routes, public warning systems, and environmental monitoring. Further modules strengthen preparedness and response capacities through the development and testing of emergency and evacuation plans, simulation of command and coordination structures according to the Incident Command System (ICS), and practical exercises for multi-agency cooperation involving police, fire-rescue, and emergency medical services. Finally, the course addresses post-incident recovery, including rapid and long-term repair, […]

Current Challenges in Risk Communication during Climate-Related Crises As part of the COST Action CA23126 – AlertHub: Warning Communication Knowledge Network, under WG2 – Map Challenges of Implementing Effective Warning Communication, we are sharing preliminary findings of our systematic literature review. Key challenges identified include: – Institutional fragmentation and weak coordination among agencies and sectors. – Low risk awareness and limited public engagement, especially in vulnerable and rural communities. – Insufficient integration of scientific and traditional knowledge for locally adapted solutions. – Outdated technological infrastructure and poor system interoperability. – Communication bottlenecks: unclear messages, inaccessible channels, failure to convey uncertainty effectively. – Underutilization of community-based resources such as schools, pharmacies, and local organizations. – Political and financial constraints, including limited planning capacity and weak climate adaptation mandates. We are collecting grey literature (real-life cases, policies, evaluations, and governance tools from 2015 onward) to deepen this analysis and extract practical guidelines.

I am deeply honored to have been elected Adjunct Professor at Technical University of Leoben (Montanuniversität Leoben) (Austria) for a five-year term (2025–2030), following the decision of the University Senate on June 4, 2025, officially confirmed by the University on June 5, 2025. In line with this appointment, and based on the signed teaching contracts, I will be engaged in the international Master’s program in Safety and Disaster Management during the academic year 2025/26, with the following courses: Preventive Planning and Protective Measures in the Surroundings of Industrial Plants (Winter Semester 2025/26, face-to-face teaching) – fully responsible (100%) as lecturer. Vulnerability, Stress, Resilience (Winter Semester 2025/26, face-to-face teaching) – jointly taught (Cvetković 1/3, Forstner 1/3, Renner 1/3). I look forward to this academic journey and to further strengthening the link between research, teaching, and international collaboration in the domains of risk, safety, and resilience.

ProSafeNet is a global hub for practitioners, professionals, and scientists in the fields of safety, security, risk, and emergency management. Built by experts for experts, ProSafeNet empowers smarter decisions, faster responses, and stronger global collaboration. ProSafeNet serves as the global hub for safety, security, risk, and emergency (disaster) practitioners, professionals, and scientists – including police, firefighters, rescuers, medics, emergency responders, and military personnel—as well as security managers, civil protec-tion teams, volunteers, students, companies, and NGOs.

Историјски развој  полицијског образовања у србији Владимир М. Цветковић Срђан Милашиновић Ладин Гостимировић   Београд, 2017. године     САДРЖАЈ   Увод. 3 Историјски развој полицијског образовања до Другог светског рата 9 Историјски развој полицијског образовања после Другог светског рата. 20 3.1.  Средња школа унутрашњих послова. 20 3.2. Виша школа унутрашњих послова. 70 3.3.  Полицијска академија. 138 3.4.  Kриминалистичко-полицијска академија. 176 Закључак. 223 Литература. 244       Увод У временима настанка првих полиција кадар који је у ове организације приман био је бeз посебног претходног образовања и припреме. Наравно, то се све одражавало и на њихову ефикасност приликом рада. Учило се из искуства, од старијих колега и кроз саму праксу. Евентуално је извесно војно образовање представљало компаративну вредност. Са јасним одвајањем полиције од војске, те издвајањем и профилисањем полицијске функције, усложњавањем и диференцијацијом полицијских послова, све комплекснијим односима полиције са друштвеним окружењем стварају се услови за настанак полицијске професије у њеном пуном смислу и значењу. Дакле, током читавог XIX и почетком XX века полицијска служба се у Србији ослањала на учење кроз праксу, а посебно школовање полицијских кадрова било је спорадично и споро се развијало. Прво професионално образовање добили су припадници жандармерије, а о питању професионалне обуке полицијских кадрова озбиљније се приступило након Првог светског рата и стварања Краљевине Срба, Хрвата и Словенаца. Историјски посматрано, полиција као функција и организација је старија од полицијског школства[1]. При томе, један од најзначајних прописа о уређењу полиције који је састављен у форми данашњих прописа јесте ,,Начертаније устројства полицајне власти у Београду и по том прочим мјестима Отечества“ од 8. марта 1811. године.[2] У полицијској гласнику, у стручном делу који се односи на стогодишњицу београдске полиције је посебно истакнуто да је поред избора Јакова Ненадовића за ,,попечитеља Унутарњих Дела“, недељу дана након његовог избора, министарству је поднесен један елаборат од особитог значаја, али […]

Budite deo globalne zajednice vatrogasaca-spasilaca – povežite se, učite i delite ono što vas čini herojima! Predstavljamo ProSafeNet – međunarodnu platformu koja okuplja profesionalce sa prve linije odbrane i spašavanja širom sveta. – Delite iskustva sa terena – postavite fotografije i izveštaje sa intervencija, kako bi kolege učile iz stvarnih akcija. – Komunicirajte bez barijera – automatski prevod na sve jezike omogućava vam da razmenjujete znanja i taktike sa vatrogascima iz drugih zemalja. – Besplatni edukativni materijali – priručnici, vodiči i obuke koji vam pomažu da unapredite veštine i budete spremni za svaku situaciju. – Najnovije vesti i inovacije – pratite globalne trendove, tehnologije i akcije u oblasti vatrogastva i spasavanja. Zajednica koja razume – povežite se sa kolegama, podržite jedni druge i izgradite mrežu koja jača otpornost svih. Kada je u pitanju spašavanje života, nijedan vatrogasac ne bi trebalo da bude sam. ProSafeNet je tu da vas poveže, osnaži i inspiriše. https://prosafenet.com/  

Spatial–Temporal Trends of Cancer Among Women in Central Serbia, 1999–2021: Implications for Disaster and Public Health Preparedness by Emina Kričković 1,Vladimir M. Cvetković 2,3,4,*,Zoran Kričković 5 and Tin Lukić 6,7 1Faculty of Geography, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 3/III, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia 2Department of Disaster Management and Environmental Security, Faculty of Security Studies, University of Belgrade, Gospodara Vučića 50, 11040 Belgrade, Serbia 3Scientific-Professional Society for Disaster Risk Management, Dimitrija Tucovića 121, 11040 Belgrade, Serbia 4Safety and Disaster Studies, Department of Environmental and Energy Process Engineering, Technical University of Leoben, Franz Josef-Straße 18, 8700 Leoben, Austria 5Military Geographical Institute—“General Stevan Bošković”, Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Serbia, Mije Kovačevića 5, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia 6Department of Geography, Tourism and Hotel Management, Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Trg Dositeja Obradovića 3, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia 7Ruđer Bošković School, Kneza Višeslava 17, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia * Author to whom correspondence should be addressed. Healthcare 2025, 13(17), 2169; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13172169 (registering DOI) Submission received: 22 June 2025 / Revised: 18 August 2025 / Accepted: 26 August 2025 / Published: 30 August 2025 (This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Healthcare in Public Health Risk and Disaster Management: Strategies for Mitigation and Response) Downloadkeyboard_arrow_down Browse Figures Versions Notes   Abstract Background/Objectives: Cancer is a major public health burden in Serbia and a factor influencing long-term disaster readiness by straining health system capacity. This study examined spatial and temporal trends in incidence and mortality for eight major cancers among women in Central Serbia (1999–2021) to inform targeted prevention and preparedness strategies. Methods: Standardised rates from national datasets were analysed using the Mann–Kendall trend test and Sen’s slope estimator. Geographic disparities were mapped in ArcGIS Pro 3.2. Mortality trends were assessed only for statistically reliable series. Results: Breast cancer incidence increased in six counties, while cervical cancer declined in several areas, likely reflecting screening success. Colorectal, bladder, […]

Слободан Миладиновић Владимир М. Цветковић Срђан Милашиновић УПРАВЉАЊЕ РИЗИЦИМА У КРИЗНИМ СИТУАЦИЈАМА ИЗАЗВАНИМ КЛИЗИШТИМА КРИМИНАЛИСТИЧКО-ПОЛИЦИЈСКА АКАДЕМИЈА Београд, 2018   Издавач КРИМИНАЛИСТИЧКО-ПОЛИЦИЈСКА АКАДЕМИЈА Београд, Цара Душана 196 (Земун) За издавача проф. др ГОРАН БОШКОВИЋ вршилац дужности декана Академије Аутори проф. др СЛОБОДАН МИЛАДИНОВИЋ доц. др ВЛАДИМИР М. ЦВЕТКОВИЋ проф. др СРЂАН МИЛАШИНОВИЋ Рецензенти проф. др СЛОБОДАН МАРКОВИЋ проф. др СЛАВОЉУБ ДРАГИЋЕВИЋ проф. др ВЛАДИМИР ЈАКОВЉЕВИЋ Уредник доц. др ДРАГОСЛАВА МИЋОВИЋ Лектор мр Татјана Милошевић-Лазаревић Дизајн корица мр НЕБОЈША КУЈУНЏИЋ Тираж 100 примерака Штампа ??????????   Решењем вршиоца дужности декана Криминалистичко-полицијске академије 01 број 15/16‒5 од 20. новембра 2017. године рукопис је одобрен                  за издавање и употребу у настави као монографија.   ©2018 Криминалистичко-полицијска академија, Београд ISBN 978-86-7020-393-8 САДРЖАЈ ПРЕДГОВОР 11 УВОД 13 КЛИЗИШТА 15 Појам клизања и клизишта 16 Узроци клизања и настанак клизишта 19 Снимање топографске површине и препознавање клизишта 23 Механика клизања 28 Динамика (фазе) клизања 30 Елементи и морфологија клизишта 32 Зоне клизишта 35 Класификација клизишта 36 Остала гравитациона кретања стенских маса низ косину 40 Одроњавање 40 1.9.2 Осипање (сипари) 42 1.9.3.Течење или тецишта 44 ТОПОГРАФСКА ПОВРШИНА (ТЕРЕН), СРЕДИНА ЗА СТВАРАЊЕ КЛИЗИШТА 47 Површина литосфере, примарни чинилац за формирање клизишта 47 Геолошка грађа земљине коре 49 Магматске стене 51 Дубинске магматске стене 53 Вулканске (изливне) стене 55 Метаморфне стене 56 Седиментне стене 59 Физичко-механичке и отпорно-деформабилне особине стена у доступном делу Земљине коре 65 Физичке карактеристике стена 67 Влажност 73 Механичке карактеристике стена 76 2.1.2.2.1 Отпорно-деформабилне карактеристике 77 Врсте природних средина и њихов утицај на стабилност тла и појаву клизишта 82 Алувијалне равни 83 Естуарни терени (делте) 84 Пролувијални терени 84 Лесни терени 84 Терени од дина и бархана 85 Глечерски терени 86 Делувијални терени 87 Eлувијални терени 87 Колувијални терени 88 Осулински терени 89 Кречњачки (карстни) терени 90 Терени састављени од чврсто везаних стена 91 Утицај […]

ProSafeNet is built to serve a broad and diverse community of professionals, teams, and institutions dedicated to safety, security, emergency response, and risk management. Whether you operate on the ground, coordinate from a control center, develop policy, teach, research, or deliver humanitarian aid – ProSafeNet is your professional space for connection, collaboration, and continuous growth. No matter your badge, title, or background – if your work is devoted to protecting lives, infrastructure, or the environment – you belong in ProSafeNet. No matter your badge, title, or background – if your work is devoted to protecting lives, infrastructure, or the environment – you belong in ProSafeNet. 👉 Join us today and become part of a global movement. Create your profile, connect with peers, access real-time tools, share knowledge, and grow your professional impact. 🔗 www.prosafenet.com 📩 media@prosafenet.com Together, we can build a safer, smarter, and more resilient world. ProSafeNet – The global hub for safety, security, risk & emergency professionals & scientists More than a platform – ProSafeNet is where safety & security professionals unite globally to share knowledge, enhance readiness, and lead coordinated action in times of risk and crisis. Built by experts, for experts – to empower better decisions, faster response, and stronger professional bonds. By Prof. Dr. Vladimir Cvetković – leading expert in safety/security and disaster-emergency risk management science and practice in South East Europe ProSafeNet – The global hub for safety, security, risk & emergency professionals & scientists More than a platform – ProSafeNet is where safety & security professionals unite globally to share knowledge, enhance readiness, and lead coordinated action in times of risk and crisis. Built by experts, for experts – to empower better decisions, faster response, and stronger professional bonds. By Prof. Dr. Vladimir Cvetković – leading expert in safety/security and disaster-emergency risk management […]

The International Journal of Contemporary Security Studies (IJCSS) invites researchers, scholars, and practitioners to submit original manuscripts for publication in upcoming issues of the journal. Scope & Topics IJCSS publishes rigorous, peer-reviewed research covering a broad spectrum of security-related fields—both traditional and emerging—including: Global, regional, and human security issues Civil protection, emergency preparedness, and crisis response Resilience and risk management in contemporary contexts Cybersecurity, cyber threats, and hybrid warfare Private military/security companies and military actors Governance, institutional capacity, and policy analysis Migration, human trafficking, and human security dimensions Environmental security, climate change, and resource conflicts Submission Guidelines Submit manuscripts via the journal’s online platform. Adhere to the author guidelines available on the journal website. Languages accepted: English Important Dates Submissions are accepted on a rolling basis Accepted papers are published continuously throughout the year Review Process All submissions undergo a double-blind peer-review process to ensure academic rigor and high quality. Contact Journal homepage: contemporarysecuritystudies.com Email: ijcss.fb@gmail.com Editor-in-Chief Prof. Dr. Vladimir M. Cvetković

first_page Download PDF settings Order Article Reprints Open AccessArticle Dealing with High-Risk Police Activities and Enhancing Safety and Resilience: Qualitative Insights into Austrian Police Operations from a Risk and Group Dynamic Perspective by Renate Renner 1,*, Vladimir M. Cvetković 1,2,3 and Nicola Lieftenegger 4 1 Safety and Disaster Studies, Chair of Thermal Processing Technology, Department of Environmental and Energy Process Engineering, Technical University of Leoben, 8700 Leoben, Austria 2 Department of Disaster Management and Environmental Security, Faculty of Security Studies, University of Belgrade, Gospodara Vučića 50, 11040 Belgrade, Serbia 3 Scientific-Professional Society for Disaster Risk Management, Dimitrija Tucovića 121, 11040 Belgrade, Serbia 4 Police Academy, Regional Police Directorate, 9201 Krumpendorf am Wörthersee, Austria * Author to whom correspondence should be addressed. Safety 2025, 11(3), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety11030068 Submission received: 21 February 2025 / Revised: 11 July 2025 / Accepted: 14 July 2025 / Published: 18 July 2025 Downloadkeyboard_arrow_down Browse Figures Versions Notes   Abstract Special police units like Austria’s EKO Cobra are uniquely trained to manage high-risk operations, including terrorism, amok situations, and hostage crises. This study explores how group dynamics contribute to operational safety and resilience, emphasising the interconnection between risk perception, training, and operational practices. Interviews with current and former EKO Cobra members reveal key risk factors, including overconfidence, insufficient training, inadequate equipment, and the challenges of high-stakes scenarios. Using a structured yet thematically flexible interview analysis approach, the study adopts group dynamics theory as its framework and applies a semi-inductive, semi-deductive qualitative methodology. It examines risk categorisation in ad hoc operations, as well as the interplay between risk perception and training, proposing actionable strategies to enhance safety and preparedness through tailored training programmes. The findings underscore the transformative impact of intensive scenario-based and high-stress training, which enhances situational awareness and reinforces team-based responses through cohesion and effective communication. Group dynamics, including cohesion and effective communication, play a pivotal role in mitigating risks and […]

Jevtić, M., Cvetković, V. M., Gačić, J., & Raonić, Z. (2025). Factors of Vulnerability and Resilience of Persons with Disabilities During Disasters: Challenges and Strategies for Inclusive Risk Reduction. International Journal of Disaster Risk Management, 7(1), 91–114. Review Article Factors of Vulnerability and Resilience of Persons with Disabilities During Disasters: Challenges and Strategies for Inclusive Risk Reduction Milica Jevtić1, Vladimir M. Cvetković 1,2,3,4*, Jasmina Gačić1,4, Zlatko Raonić3 1 Scientific-Professional Society for Disaster Risk Management, Dimitrija Tucovića 121, 11040 Belgrade, Serbia, jevtic.milica98@gmail.com. 2 Department of Disaster Management and Environmental Security, Faculty of Security Studies, University of Belgrade, Gospodara Vucica 50, 11040 Belgrade, Serbia; vmc@fb.bg.ac.rs; vladimir.cvetkovic@unileoben.ac.at (V.M.C); jasmina.gacic@fb.bg.ac.rs (J.G). 3 Safety and Disaster Studies, Chair of Thermal Processing Technology, Department of Environmental and Energy Process Engineering, Technical University of Leoben, Austria; zlatko.raonic@unileoben.ac.at. 4 International Institute for Disaster Research, Dimitrija Tucovića 121, 11040 Belgrade, Serbia.   * Correspondence: vmc@fb.bg.ac.rs.   Received: 5 January 2025; Revised: 10 April 2025; Accepted: 7 May 2025; Published: 30 June 2025.   Abstract: Persons with disabilities (PWDs) are among the most at-risk groups during disaster situations due to various physical, sensory, cognitive, and systemic challenges that hinder their ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from crises. Although international legal frameworks emphasise their inclusion, people with disabilities (PWDs) often struggle to access essential resources, emergency assistance, and social protections during such events. This study examines both the vulnerabilities and strengths of people with disabilities (PWDs) in disaster risk management, highlighting the critical need for inclusive policies, enhanced accessibility measures, and stronger community-based support systems. It reviews key international, European, and national legal instruments designed to protect the rights of people with disabilities (PWDs) in disaster contexts while identifying gaps in their implementation. Furthermore, the research examines the active role people with disabilities (PWDs) can play in disaster […]

Review Article A Cross-National Study of Disaster Risk Management: Strengths and Weaknesses in Bulgaria, Romania, and Albania with Reflections on Serbia Beli, A., Renner, R., Cvetković, V. M., Ivanov, A., & Gačić, J. (2025). A Cross-National Study of Disaster Risk Management: Strengths and Weaknesses in Bulgaria, Romania, and Albania with Reflections on Serbia. International Journal of Disaster Risk Management, 7(1), 431–460. Abstract: This study examines disaster risk management systems in Bulgaria, Romania, and Albania, highlighting their distinct strengths and weaknesses while drawing comparisons to Serbia’s framework. The research underscores the growing urgency of disaster risk management in addressing challenges posed by natural and man-made (technological) hazards, which are further aggravated by climate change, globalisation, and socio-economic shifts. The study identifies best practices alongside systemic weaknesses by assessing the normative, institutional, and strategic frameworks of these countries. Key strengths include comprehensive legal systems, robust international partnerships, and sophisticated early warning mechanisms. However, these strengths are counterbalanced by limited local capacity, fragmented institutional coordination, and inadequate public awareness. The analysis highlights the potential for regional cooperation through a comparative lens, emphasising the importance of engaging local communities, enhancing early warning technologies, and aligning with global disaster management standards. The findings offer valuable insights into ongoing discussions about constructing resilient societies, providing practical recommendations to enhance disaster risk management systems across Southeastern Europe. Keywords: disaster risk management, strengths, weaknesses, resilience, regional collaboration, institutional capacities, Bulgaria, Romania, Albania, Serbia. Introduction Modern society is exposed to a vast number of different hazards. In addition to traditional natural and technical-technological hazards, new types of threats are emerging. Traditional hazards are becoming more frequent and intense (Cvetković, Renner, Lukić, & Aleksova, 2024). These changes, resulting from the development of modern society, are driven by climate change, globalisation, and technological advancement (Todić, 2013). Throughout history, people have perceived […]

   Article Understanding Ransomware Through the Lens of Disaster Risk: Implications for Cybersecurity and Economic Stability Nikola Vidović1, Vladimir M. Cvetković 1,2,3*, Hatidža Beriša4, Srđan Milašinović5 1 Faculty of Security Studies, University of Belgrade, Gospodara Vucica 50, 11040 Belgrade, Serbia; vmc@fb.bg.ac.rs (V.M.C); vidovicnikola.finance@gmail.com (N.V.); 2 Safety and Disaster Studies, Chair of Thermal Processing Technology, Department of Environmental and Energy Process Engineering, Montanuniversitaet, Leoben, Austria; vladimir.cvetkovic@unileoben.ac.at 3 Scientific-Professional Society for Disaster Risk Management, Dimitrija Tucovića 121, 11040 Belgrade, Serbia; 4 University of Defence, Military academy, Belgrade – Republic of Serbia, Veljka Lukića Kurjaka 1, 11000 Belgrade, hatidza.berisa@mod.gov.rs. 5  University of Criminal Investigation and Police Studies, Cara Dušana 196, Belgrade, srdjan.milasinovic@kpu.edu.rs.   *  Correspondence: vidovicnikola.finance@gmail.com.   Received: 30 December 2024; Revised: 14 February 2025; Accepted: 13 April 2025; Published: 30 June 2025. Abstract: Ransomware has emerged as a modern digital crisis, mirroring the widespread disruptions typically associated with natural or artificial disasters. As global economies grow increasingly interconnected through digital systems, the fallout from ransomware attacks stretches far beyond mere technical breaches. These incidents result in severe financial damage, disrupt operations, erode reputations, and contribute to broader socioeconomic instability. This study adopts a disaster risk perspective to examine the broader economic and social impact of ransomware, particularly its effects on critical infrastructure and public trust in institutions. Through a multi-case analysis of sixteen significant ransomware attacks between 2015 and 2025, the research highlights a recurring pattern: direct and indirect costs often compound, with impacts varying from ransom demands and halted services to reputational loss and sector-wide vulnerabilities. The rise of Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) has also made these attacks more accessible and complex, deepening the threat landscape. The findings underscore the need to integrate cybersecurity into comprehensive disaster risk management strategies. Policymakers, institutions, and businesses must adopt a forward-looking approach—emphasising continuous risk evaluation, resilient […]

Article Integrating Psychosocial Support into Emergency and Disaster Management and Public Safety: The Role of the Red Cross of Serbia Ljubica Janković1, Vladimir M. Cvetković 1,2,3,4*, Jasmina Gačić1,4, Renate Renner3, Vladimir Jakovljević1,2 1 Scientific-Professional Society for Disaster Risk Management, Dimitrija Tucovića 121, 11040 Belgrade, Serbia. 2 Department of Disaster Management and Environmental Security, Faculty of Security Studies, University of Belgrade, Gospodara Vucica 50, 11040 Belgrade, Serbia; vmc@fb.bg.ac.rs; vladimir.cvetkovic@unileoben.ac.at (V.M.C); jasmina.gacic@fb.bg.ac.rs (J.G), vjakovljevic111@gmail.com (V.J.). 3 Safety and Disaster Studies, Chair of Thermal Processing Technology, Department of Environmental and Energy Process Engineering, Technical University of Leoben, Austria; renate.renner@unileoben.ac.at. 4 International Institute for Disaster Research, Dimitrija Tucovića 121, 11040 Belgrade, Serbia.   * Correspondence: vmc@fb.bg.ac.rs     Abstract: As emergencies and disasters continue to strain public health systems globally, integrating psychosocial support into national response frameworks has emerged as a critical, though often overlooked, priority. This study examines the role of the Red Cross of Serbia in delivering Psychosocial First Aid (PFA), highlighting it as a vital yet underrepresented component within the broader scope of emergency response. Grounded in a theoretical framework, the paper outlines the core principles of PFA, its significance during crises, and the psychosocial impact of disasters on individuals and communities. It further explores the relationship between mental health and community resilience, underscoring the importance of mental recovery in disaster contexts. Utilising a qualitative approach, the study draws on an expert interview with a representative of the Red Cross of Serbia to investigate the current state of PFA implementation. Particular attention is given to institutional integration, training protocols, and prevailing public perceptions of psychosocial support. The findings reveal a significant disparity between the established provision of medical first aid and the marginal status of psychosocial assistance. Key barriers identified include insufficient institutional acknowledgement, a lack of structured and standardised training […]

With pride and deep gratitude for the trust placed in me, I hereby inform the academic and professional public that, by the decision of the Senate of the Technical University of Leoben in Austria, I was appointed on June 4, 2025, to the academic title of Adjunct Professor, in accordance with the university’s statutes and high academic standards of this renowned international institution. This appointment represents one of the highest academic honors in my career—a recognition of my years of scientific research, international engagement, and strategic contribution to the field of risk and safety management. At the same time, it is a great responsibility and commitment to continue dedicated work in the fields of education and science. This recognition affirms the expertise and quality of my previous engagement, as well as the trust and appreciation expressed by the university through this decision. In line with the university’s regulations, the title is awarded for a period of five years, with the possibility of extension based on further collaboration and evaluation of results. The decision builds on my previous role as a visiting professor at the Technical University of Leoben, within the master’s program Safety and Disaster Management (SDM)—an interdisciplinary program that integrates safety, risk governance, environmental protection, and energy efficiency, aimed at educating professionals capable of responding to contemporary challenges and crisis situations. As part of this role, I will be engaged in teaching, mentoring students, developing practical simulations and field exercises, and participating in joint research projects focused on critical infrastructure protection, climate and technological risks, and strengthening the resilience of communities and institutions. Special emphasis will be placed on bridging academic knowledge with practical experience through regional and European initiatives. The official awarding ceremony will be held on December 19, 2025, in Leoben, Austria, as part of the university’s […]

📢 PUBLISHED! Emergency Response Guidebook 2024 (ERG 2024) Now Available in Serbian! It is with great pleasure that, as the editor of the edition, I inform both the professional and general public that the Scientific-Professional Society for Disaster Risk Management (SPS-DRM) has published the digital version of the Emergency Response Guidebook 2024 (ERG 2024) officially translated into Serbian, with approval from CANUTEC (Canadian Transport Emergency Centre). The guide was developed through the joint efforts of Transport Canada (TC), the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), and the Secretariat of Infrastructure, Communications and Transport of Mexico (SICT), with the support of CIQUIME from Argentina. It has been translated into many world languages, and now, for the first time, is also available in Serbian (Latin script)! 📅 The approval for translation and printing was granted on December 20, 2024. 📄 The guide is available for download at: 🔗 https://upravljanje-rizicima.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Vodic-za-odgovore-na-udes-2024-Scientific-Professional-Society-for-Disaster-Risk-Management-ProSafeNet-1.pdf ERG 2024 was developed through the collaboration of: • Transport Canada (TC)• U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)• Secretariat of Infrastructure, Communications and Transport of Mexico (SICT)…with the support of CIQUIME (Argentina) The guide has already been translated into several world languages such as Mandarin, Portuguese, Japanese, Turkish, and more — and is now, for the first time, available in Serbian (Latin script)! 📲 Coming Soon via App! The digital version of the guide will also be available through the ProSafeNet mobile application, providing easy and quick access to information on hazardous materials, safety measures, and response procedures — directly from your mobile phone. 🔧 The printed version (A5 format, Latin script) will be distributed free of charge to members of the Serbian Police and the Sector for Emergency Management of the Republic of Serbia. 🙏 We thank translator Dejan Đurđević, as well as the entire SPS-DRM team, for their professional and responsible work, which […]

A Predictive Framework for Understanding Multidimensional Security Perceptions Among Students in Serbia: The Role of Institutional, Socio-Economic, and Demographic Determinants of Sustainability by Vladimir M. Cvetković 1,2,3,*, Milan Lipovac 1, Renate Renner 2, Svetlana Stanarević 1 and Zlatko Raonić 2 1 Department of Disaster Management and Environmental Security, Faculty of Security Studies, University of Belgrade, Gospodara Vucica 50, 11040 Belgrade, Serbia 2 Safety and Disaster Studies, Chair of Thermal Processing Technology, Department of Environmental and Energy Process Engineering, Technical University of Leoben, 8700 Leoben, Austria 3 Scientific-Professional Society for Disaster Risk Management, Dimitrija Tucovića 121, 11040 Belgrade, Serbia * Author to whom correspondence should be addressed. Sustainability 2025, 17(11), 5030; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17115030 Submission received: 23 April 2025 / Revised: 26 May 2025 / Accepted: 28 May 2025 / Published: 30 May 2025 Downloadkeyboard_arrow_down Browse Figures Versions Notes Abstract This study investigates and forecasts multidimensional security perceptions among Serbian university students, who are a particularly engaged and vulnerable demographic in transitional societies. It examines how demographic traits, socio-economic status, and levels of institutional trust and engagement shape students’ evaluations of security in everyday life. The study examines six primary dimensions of security perception: personal safety, safety at public events and demonstrations, perceived national threats, digital security and privacy, perception of emergencies and crises, and trust in institutions and security policies. A structured online survey was administered to a sample of 406 university students selected through non-probability purposive sampling from major academic centres in Serbia, including Belgrade, Niš, Novi Sad, and Kragujevac. The questionnaire, based on a five-point Likert scale, was designed to measure levels of agreement across the six dimensions. Data were analysed using multiple regression, one-way ANOVA, Pearson’s correlation, and independent samples t-tests. All necessary statistical assumptions were met, ensuring the reliability and validity of the results. Descriptive statistics indicated moderate to moderately high overall perceived safety, with personal safety scoring the highest, followed by digital security […]

🚀 APPLICATION: Official Launch of ProSafeNet 🌐 https://prosafenet.com/ ProSafeNet is the Global Hub for Safety, Security, Risk & Emergency Professionals and Scientists. It’s more than a platform — it’s a professional ecosystem where experts across disciplines and continents unite to share knowledge, enhance readiness, and coordinate global response to the world’s most complex emergencies. 🛡️ Built by professionals. For professionals. With purpose. A project by the Scientific-Professional Society for Disaster Risk Management 🌐 What is ProSafeNet? More than a platform — ProSafeNet is where safety & security professionals unite globally to share knowledge, enhance readiness, and lead coordinated action in times of risk and crisis. Built by experts, for experts — to empower better decisions, faster response, and stronger professional bonds. ProSafeNet is an intelligent digital platform designed to connect, empower, and support professionals and institutions working in the fields of: – Safety – Security – Police – Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) – Crisis Response – Public Health Preparedness – Emergency Management — across sectors and across borders. In an era of increasingly complex and global risks — from pandemics and climate-related disasters to cyber threats, hybrid crises, and systemic vulnerabilities — the need for collaborative, timely, and expert-driven solutions has never been greater. Yet, the international safety and emergency community remains fragmented, often lacking tools for real-time connection, shared learning, and coordinated response. 🔷 ProSafeNet is changing that. We are building a secure, smart, and purpose-driven platform where: – Professionals from all disciplines and regions can collaborate and grow – Operational tools and expert content are available when and where they are needed – Training, evaluation, and decision support are integrated and on demand – Crisis communication and knowledge exchange are faster, safer, and global Whether you operate on the frontlines, design policy, teach, train, or analyze threats — […]