Critical Infrastructure Protection (presentation) – Prof. Dr. Vladimir M. Cvetković

This presentation offers a comprehensive overview of Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP), a key area in ensuring the safety, functionality, and resilience of essential societal systems. It explores what critical infrastructure is, why it matters, and how various sectors such as energy, water, transport, digital networks, healthcare, and finance are identified and protected across different national contexts. Through a detailed academic perspective, the presentation examines the main threats these systems face, including natural hazards and disasters, terrorism, cyberattacks, and system failures. It also addresses the growing interdependence of infrastructure sectors, the importance of public-private cooperation, and the role of international and national policy frameworks, including the EU Directive 2022/2557 and the U.S. Presidential Policy Directive 21. The content is intended for students, researchers, policymakers, and professionals in the fields of disaster risk management, emergency preparedness, and security studies. The presentation is delivered by Prof. Dr. Vladimir M. Cvetković, a leading expert in disaster risk and resilience, affiliated with the Faculty of Security Studies, University of Belgrade, and Montanuniversität Leoben in Austria.  https://youtu.be/EeDam6g_yyQ?si=p0jCx9j0G_tfIJvI

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Disaster Preparedness and Risk Management: Key Insights from the Morning Show Interview – RTS Serbia

Disaster Preparedness and Risk Management: Key Insights from the Morning Show Interview – RTS Serbia Last year, Storm Boris swept across Central Europe, while devastating floods hit Spain and Germany, claiming at least 258 lives. These three disasters ranked among the ten costliest climate events worldwide in 2024, underscoring the critical importance of disaster preparedness. However, according to a recent Eurobarometer survey, fewer than four in ten Europeans believe they are well-prepared for disasters or emergencies in their areas. Even more concerning, fewer than one in ten respondents reported being informed about an emergency response plan in their city. The memory of the catastrophic 2014 floods in Serbia remains fresh. During that disaster, 57 people lost their lives, and the town of Obrenovac became a symbol of suffering, with approximately 90% of its territory submerged and nearly 9,000 residents evacuated. This raises pressing questions about Serbia’s preparedness for natural disasters, the effectiveness of its disaster response system, and necessary improvements to enhance resilience. During a recent morning show appearance, I, Professor Vladimir Cvetković from the Faculty of Security, had the opportunity to discuss these critical issues. The discussion revolved around several key aspects: Serbia’s Current Preparedness for Natural Disasters: Given the challenges posed by natural disasters, how prepared is Serbia to respond effectively? Improvements in the Disaster Protection and Rescue System: What needs to be enhanced to strengthen Serbia’s disaster response capabilities? Identifying Gaps in the Existing System: What are the main deficiencies in Serbia’s protection and rescue system, and which can be addressed in the short term? Disaster Risk Reduction Strategy (2022-2027): The Ministry of Internal Affairs has developed a draft strategy and action plan for disaster risk reduction and emergency management in Serbia. Although this critical regulatory framework has yet to be adopted, what are the key areas […]

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Instructions for authors, International Journal of Disaster Risk Management

International Journal of Disaster Risk Management (IJDRM)

📢 International Journal of Disaster Risk Management (IJDRM) 📢 Dear Researchers and Authors, We are pleased to invite submissions to the International Journal of Disaster Risk Management (IJDRM), published by the Scientific-Professional Society for Disaster Risk Management (SPS-DRM). IJDRM is dedicated to advancing disaster risk management research through rigorous, original, and impactful contributions. 🔹 Submission Guidelines: Ensure your manuscript aligns with our ethical standards, including originality, avoiding plagiarism, and maintaining accuracy and integrity of your data. Manuscripts must be original, unpublished, and not under consideration elsewhere. Papers typically should not exceed 8,000 words (longer submissions may be considered upon editorial review). Please follow APA 6th edition referencing guidelines carefully. Submissions can be made directly through our online platform or via email at: ijodrm@gmail.com Detailed submission guidelines are available here: https://internationaljournalofdisasterriskmanagement.com/Vol1/about/submissions Your research can significantly contribute to advancing disaster risk management knowledge and practices globally. We look forward to your valuable contributions! Warm regards, Editor-in-Chief Prof. Dr. Vladimir M. Cvetković https://internationaljournalofdisasterriskmanagement.com/Vol1/libraryFiles/downloadPublic/10  

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Disaster Risk Communication

Pregledni rad Komunikacija o rizicima od katastrofa Marko Radovanović1, Vladimir M. Cvetković234* 1   Ministarstvo unutrašnjih poslova Republike Srbije, Beograd; marko6r@yahoo.com 2   Fakultet bezbednosti, Univerzitet u Beogradu, Gospodara Vučića 20, Beograd; 3  Naučno-stručno društvo za upravljanje rizicima u vanrednim situacijama, Dimitrija Tucovića 121, Beograd 4  International Institute for Disaster Research, Belgrade.   *   Koresondencija: vmc@fb.bg.ac.rs Abstrakt: Komunikacija rizika od katastrofa predstavlja jedan od temelјa uspešnog upravlјanja u katastrofama koji se ogleda u smanjenju razarajućih uticaja opasnosti od katastrofa na lјudske živote i imovinu, obezbeđenjem pravovremenih kritičnih informacija ugroženim zajednicama. Nedovoljno razvijen sistem indetifikacije, analize i deljenja informacija o rizicima od katastrofa dovodi do lošeg upravljanja u svim fazama katastrofa (ublažavanje, pripremljenost, odgovor i oporavak). U svakoj od spomenutih faza upravljanja postoje jasni zahtevi za specifičnim informacijama koje omogućavaju efikasno donošenje ključnih i blagovremenih odluka. Razmena informacija o rizicima od katastrofa je pod uticajem velikog broja faktora kao što su stepen naučno-tehnološke razvijenosti, demografskog, sociološkog i psihološkog ambijenta, kao i samih karakteristika prirodnih i antropogenih opasnosti. Polazeći od nesumnjivog značaja informacija o rizicima od katastrofa, autori u preglednom radu identifikuju, analiziraju i sistematizuju relevantne aspekte fenomenoloških dimenzija komunikacije o rizicima od katastrofa. Posebna pažnja posvećena je sveobuhvatnom sagledavanju izvora, subjekata i sredstava komunikacije, sa osvrtom na inovativna rešenja i strategije komunikacije u odgovoru na rizike od prirodnih i antropogenih katastrofa. Ključne reči: katastrofe, komunikacija, rizici, strategije, izvori, subjekti, sredstva, preporuke. Uvod Imajući u vidu učestalost i ozbilјnost prirodnih i antropogenih katastrofa, kao i predviđanja o njihovom povećanju usled klimatskih promena, ekonomskog rasta i rasta stanovništva u regionima sklonim katastrofama, pravilno izveštavanje o rizicima od katastrofa, naročito u rizičnim zajednicama, sve više dobija značaju (Annex, 2012; W. J. W. Botzen & Van Den Bergh, 2009; Jongman, Ward, & Aerts, 2012; Kunreuther & Michel-Kerjan, 2011). Nedovolјnost same procene rizika od različitih katastorofa za razvoj […]

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Prof. Dr. Vladimir M. Cvetković – Disaster Risk Management

The Role of Multimedia Content in Educating Youth about Disasters

The Role of Multimedia Content in Educating Youth about Disasters Ivanka Krnjić1, Vladimir M. Cvetković2* 1 Air Force Academy, Belgrade 2 Faculty of Security Studies, University of Belgrade 3 Scientific-Professional Society for Risk Management in Emergency Situations, Belgrade *Correspondence: vmc@fb.bg.ac.rs Abstract Disaster education is one of the most important prerequisites for improving society’s preparedness for timely and adequate response to disasters. Various traditional and innovative methods are used to educate young people about disasters to enhance their resilience to natural and anthropogenic hazards. Through a systematic literature review, this paper elaborates on the fundamental characteristics of disaster education, as well as the characteristics and application methods of multimedia content in this process. While recognizing the importance of traditional educational methods, the authors highlight different modalities for acquiring disaster knowledge through school programs with a focus on their safety in school facilities. The results indicate that there is a significant social and scientific-pragmatic framework for designing and implementing multimedia content in disaster education for young people. Further research is needed to improve the understanding of all advantages and disadvantages of multimedia use in education. Keywords: safety, disasters, multimedia content, education, youth Introduction Natural disasters cause significant damage to material assets, disrupt the environment, and, unfortunately, result in loss of human lives. The impact of both natural and anthropogenic disasters is inevitable, and it is essential to learn how to respond adequately in such situations and manage disasters to mitigate associated risks. Disaster management is a critical and dynamic process aimed at restoring normal conditions within communities as quickly as possible. Effective disaster management requires reliable and timely information on disaster characteristics, their consequences, and their recurrence in different regions. Education plays a crucial role in disaster risk reduction, helping individuals acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to respond efficiently. Multimedia content, […]

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Prof. Dr. Vladimir M. Cvetković – Disaster Risk Management

Integrated Natural Disasters Management

INTEGRATED NATURAL DISASTERS MANAGEMENT Vladimir M. Cvetkovic vladimir.cvetkovic @ kpa.edu.rs Abstract: More serious systematic studies of natural disaster management capabilities and their consequences are about half a century, which is not surprising, given that social science is relatively young. Researchers of natural disasters indicate that a well-defined and clear governance model is a crucial element in dealing with the consequences of natural disasters. When it speaking about of management, first think of a well-established formal system, or model, that will clearly define each stage in such a process. A review of the relevant scientific literature, we can distinguish different models of natural disasters such as logical, integrated, causal and others. Certainly, given the comprehensive analysis of the effectiveness of management, an integrated approach to the management of natural disasters is a leading model in countries around the world. It is a comprehensive and integrated approach that encompasses all types of natural disasters (Biosphere, lithospheric, atmospheric) and phases (preparation, mitigation, response and recovery) management. So, it is an iterative process of decision-making in relation to the prevention, response and recovery from natural disasters. As such, it provides a chance for communities affected by disasters to balance the different needs for the protection of life, property and the environment, and to consider ways in which their cumulative actions may contribute to the longer term sustainability of the affected areas. It can be said that the guiding principles of this process: a systematic approach, partnership, uncertainty, geographic focus, relying on science and reliable data. Bearing in mind the importance of implementation models of integrated management of natural disasters in the national system of protection and rescue work is the subject of questioning evolution, structure, characteristics and functioning of the integrated management of natural disasters. In addition, special emphasis is given to the relationship […]

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Prof. Dr. Vladimir M. Cvetković – Disaster Risk Management

Tactical Approaches to Protection and Rescue in Traffic Accident-Induced Disasters

Article Tactical Approaches to Protection and Rescue in Traffic Accident-Induced Disasters Vladimir M. Cvetković 1,2,3* 1   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; 2   Scientific-Professional Society for Disaster Risk Management, Dimitrija Tucovića 121, 11040 Belgrade, Serbia. 3   International Institute for Disaster Research, Dimitrija Tucovića 121, 11040 Belgrade, Serbia.   *   Correspondence: vmc@fb.bg.ac.rs Abstract: This study delves into the complex challenges that arise when managing rescue operations in the aftermath of traffic accidents spanning various forms of transportation, including roads, railways, aviation, and waterways. Given the inherent complexity of traffic-related disasters, these events typically necessitate well-coordinated rescue strategies, involving the collaboration of multiple emergency services and the use of specialized equipment. The legal framework set forth by the Republic of Serbia plays a pivotal role in shaping the procedures and responsibilities within these rescue efforts, guiding the allocation of resources, enforcing safety protocols, and ensuring effective coordination between different agencies. Moreover, the incorporation of innovative technical solutions is critical in successfully extricating victims from perilous situations. This paper also underscores the vital importance of preventive measures, particularly in road traffic, which are mandated by national legislation. The establishment of specialized investigative bodies, such as the Traffic Accident Investigation Center, has greatly enhanced the systematic approach to preventing future incidents. By examining the various components of rescue operations, this research highlights the essential role of timely and efficient interventions in minimizing casualties and mitigating the broader impacts of traffic disasters. Keywords: traffic accidents, disaster management, rescue operations, emergency response, transportation safety, legal framework, accident investigation, Serbia.   Taktički pristupi zaštiti i spasavanju u katastrofama izazvanim saobraćajnim nezgodama Vladimir M. Cvetković 1,2,3* 1 Katedra za upravljanje vanrednim situacijama i bezbednost životne sredine, Fakultet bezbednosti, Univerzitet u Beogradu, Gospodara Vučića […]

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Prof. Dr. Vladimir M. Cvetković – Disaster Risk Management

Social Resilience to Flood Disasters: Demographic, Socio-Economic, and Psychological Factors of Impact

Cvetković, V., Ivković, T. (2022). Social Resilience to Flood Disasters: Demographic, Socio-economic and Psychological Factors of Impact”. 12th International Conference of the International Society for the Integrated Disaster Risk Management, Cluj-Napoca, Romania, 21-23 September 2022. Hosted by Babeș-Bolyai University of Cluj-Napoca (Romania), Research Institute for Sustainability and Disaster Management based on High Performance Computing and Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering. SOCIAL RESILIENCE TO FLOOD DISASTERS: DEMOGRAPHIC, SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS OF IMPACT Vladimir M. Cvetković123*, Tamara Ivković23 1   Faculty of Security Studies, University of Belgrade, Gospodara Vučića 50, 11040 Belgrade, Serbia; vmc@fb.bg.ac.rs 2   Scientific-Professional Society for Disaster Risk Management, Dimitrija Tucovića 121, Belgrade, Serbia 3   International Institute for Disaster Research, Dimitrija Tucovića 121, Belgrade, Serbia.   *  Correspondence: vmc@fb.bg.ac.rs.   Abstract: Starting from the increasingly frequent consequences of floods in local communities in Serbia, this paper aims to examine the level and impact of selected demographic, socio-economic and psychological factors on the level of social resilience to flood disasters. The research was conducted using a provided questionnaire and then collected online for 261 respondents during August 2021. The research results show a statistically significant influence of gender, previous experience, social ties, trust in public institutions and involvement in risk communication processes on the level of social resilience to flooding disasters. In addition, research has found that strengthening social resilience requires strengthening social networking, trust and solidarity among members of the local community. The obtained research results can significantly help all stakeholders formulate strategies, plans, and initiatives to improve social resilience to the consequences of flood disasters and create preconditions for building a safe and sustainable environment. Keywords: disaster, flood, social resilience, demographic, socio-economic, psychological factors.   Introduction   The application of the concept of resilience in disaster management proves to be one of the critical aspects in the interpretation […]

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