Concerns are being raised regarding Germany’s preparedness for potential crises and catastrophic events. Gerda Hasselfeldt, President of the German Red Cross (DRK), has voiced significant reservations about the current level of protection afforded to the German population.
Speaking to publications within the Funke-Mediengruppe, Hasselfeldt emphasized that “far too little” is being done to ensure population protection. She cautioned that the possibility of armed conflicts and large-scale severe weather events demands serious consideration and proactive measures.
Hasselfeldt, a former federal minister and Vice-President of the German Bundestag, observed a deficit in discussions surrounding external security, arguing that insufficient attention is being paid to safeguarding the population within Germany. She identified three crucial pillars for effective population protection: adequate resources, including emergency supplies; sufficient personnel capable of providing support during crises; and greater overall resilience among the population.
According to Hasselfeldt, significant shortcomings exist in each of these areas. Current capabilities fall far short of providing care and supplies for even a small percentage – approximately one to two percent – of the population. She criticized existing budget allocations, stating they fail to lead to meaningful improvements, citing the lack of funding for mobile support modules as a specific example.
The DRK President is advocating for an annual investment of €2.5 billion for population protection, suggesting current funding falls significantly short and fails to adequately acknowledge the role of recognized aid organizations.
Addressing the possibility of new protective infrastructure, Hasselfeldt suggested the need for “protection spaces” which could include utilizing existing infrastructure such as subway stations, rather than exclusively constructing traditional bunkers.
She also expressed pointed criticism of the ongoing hospital reform, alleging the former governing coalition failed to incorporate crisis preparedness into the planning. Instead of exploring options to rapidly convert clinics into protected spaces, there’s currently uncertainty regarding which hospitals will remain operational.
