The DIREKTION network has released a joint policy brief together with the CMINE Responder Technologies Cluster under the title “Strengthening Responder Technology in Disasters”. The brief includes concrete recommendations to support the operational uptake of innovation and to strengthen coordination mechanisms across Europe.
The document provides a set of recommendations to better align research and innovation programming with the real needs of disaster responders, improve the conditions for technology uptake, and foster coordination among actors and countries.
The brief is aimed at three key stakeholder groups:
- First responders and civil protection actors, who need practical, user-friendly, and trustworthy technologies;
- Technology developers and research consortia, who must design solutions that are fit for operational environments;
- Public authorities and policymakers, who shape the research agendas, funding frameworks, and standards that govern innovation uptake.
Structured around five strategic areas, the policy brief recommends:
- Aligning research priorities with operational needs
- Promoting ethical and inclusive technology design
- Leveraging innovation procurement (e.g. Pre-Commercial Procurement, Public Procurement of Innovative Solutions)
- Enhancing interoperability and cross-border standardisation
- Supporting responder training, guidance, and preparedness
These insights were generated through work carried out by the Responder Technology Cluster, consisting of more than 20 projects hosted on the CMINE platform and supported by the DIREKTION consortium.
Organisations and individuals are invited to read, share, and endorse the brief.
Read the full policy brief.
Survey (deadline 31 July 2025)
The DIREKTION network has also launched a short survey to better understand how past and current projects navigate ethical, legal and societal concerns when developing and deploying disaster-related technologies and services.
The survey is open to:
- Coordinators and partners of Horizon 2020 and Horizon Europe projects in disaster risk management (DRM), civil protection, emergency response, and resilience
- Researchers, developers, practitioners and end-users involved in such projects
To participate in the 15-minute survey, please fill-in the form by 31 July.
