Faced with rising international tensions, particularly with Russia, Germany is strengthening its civil protection system. This Monday, November 25, the Ministry of the Interior announced a major initiative aimed at identifying and modernizing infrastructure that could serve as shelter for the population.
A strategic inventory to counter threats
The federal government has launched a vast program to identify buildings that could be used as refuges in the event of an attack, including cellars, garages, subway stations and other underground spaces. According to a ministry spokesperson, this data will be grouped into a digital database accessible to the public via mobile applications, facilitating rapid evacuation in crisis situations.
A legacy of the Second World War brought up to date
Currently, Germany has 579 bunkers left over from World War II and the Cold War, capable of housing around 480,000 people. However, this figure remains largely insufficient for a population of 83 million inhabitants. These shelters, often dilapidated, are being upgraded, while citizens are encouraged to create their own secure spaces at home.
In recent decades, Germany had reduced its defensive infrastructure, including selling more than 300 bunkers since 2005. This trend has been reversed since the start of the war in Ukraine in 2022, illustrating a radical change in strategy in the face of a uncertain geopolitical environment.
A context of growing tensions
The German decision comes after worrying statements from Vladimir Putin, who recently spoke of an escalation of the conflict in Ukraine which could degenerate into world war. NATO members, in particular countries bordering Russia such as Poland and the Baltic States, but also Germany, are becoming increasingly vigilant in the face of these threats.
Concern has been heightened by Russia’s recent use of an intermediate-range ballistic missile capable of carrying a nuclear warhead. This show of force has reignited fears of the potential use of nuclear weapons in the ongoing conflict.
A population mobilized for its security
Alongside government efforts, German citizens are invited to actively contribute to their own protection. Setting up a home shelter, storing groceries and learning about safety measures are becoming priorities for many households.
This initiative reflects a growing desire by the authorities to prepare the country for major crisis scenarios, while sending a strong signal to the international community: Germany does not underestimate the threats and is mobilizing to protect its population.
Sources :
- Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI)
- German Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance Agency (BBK)
- German Ministry of the Interior
