Germany is bolstering its nationwide civil defense capabilities in response to evolving security concerns, with a renewed focus on protecting citizens from potential attacks. The move comes alongside ongoing military modernization efforts within the Bundeswehr.
Federal Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt, responsible for civil protection, announced plans to present a comprehensive security concept geared towards strengthening defenses for the civilian population. “We are reinforcing civil defense” Dobrindt stated.
A key component of the strategy is a national shelter concept aimed at significantly increasing the availability of protective spaces. While the exact number of new or renovated spaces is still being determined, officials acknowledge a critical shortfall in current capacity. Germany currently has 579 public shelters capable of accommodating approximately 480,000 people – representing less than 0.56% of the nation’s population.
The initiative also includes a substantial upgrade to warning systems, with plans to increase the density of nationwide sirens. Many sirens were decommissioned following the end of the Cold War, raising concerns about the reliability of communication in the event of an attack. Recognizing the potential for disruption to digital infrastructure, officials emphasize the importance of maintaining functioning analog systems.
Rather than constructing new fallout shelters – a practice that has been discontinued – the plan focuses on adapting existing infrastructure. U-Bahn stations, tunnels and underground parking garages are being evaluated for potential reinforcement and use as protective spaces.
To support these efforts, the federal government is dramatically increasing funding for civil protection. The budget for the Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance (BfBV) is slated to more than triple, rising from under 200 million euros in 2024 to over 600 million euros. This increased funding will also support fire departments and the training of essential medical personnel. The Federal Agency for Technical Relief (THW) will see its budget increase by 60 percent to 640 million euros in 2025, allowing for modernization of facilities and acquisition of new equipment.
