A recent YouGov survey commissioned by Malteser Hilfsdienst shows that the majority of the German population does not feel adequately prepared for natural disasters, major incidents or armed conflicts. Almost 72 percent of respondents perceive the threat of war and armed conflict to have increased significantly in the last five years. Public safety is also seen as more problematic by 64%, while 65% are concerned about social cohesion.
Despite this growing concern, a large proportion of respondents have not yet taken any precautions. More than half feel ill-prepared and 50 percent have not stocked up on food or medicine. Only one in four are prepared for power outages and around 10 percent have completed a first aid course.
The survey also highlights the growing need for self-protection, but the willingness to become involved in aid organizations in the long term remains low – only 38 percent would be prepared to do so. Malteser Hilfsdienst is therefore calling for stronger civil protection and more government support to better prepare the population for crises.
Further information can be found here.