DIREKTION Capability Gaps 
for Disaster & Crisis Management

Interoperability and information sharing remain a fundamental challenge across all cycles. This theme originates from recurrent findings in D2.1 related to fragmented communication, incompatible systems and unclear information flows between agencies and jurisdictions. D2.2 confirms that these gaps persist as priority issues, while D2.3 highlights that increasing system complexity will further amplify interoperability challenges if not addressed systematically.

Technology uptake and operational validation emerge as a critical theme, rooted in the observation that many innovative solutions exist but are not effectively adopted by responder organisations. D2.1 identifies barriers related to maturity, usability and operational fit, while D2.2 highlights the lack of structured validation, testing and certification pathways. From a future perspective, D2.3 underlines the need for trusted and field-ready technologies to support increasingly complex response scenarios.

Data integration and decision support represent a cross-cutting capability gap throughout all three cycles. Initial findings in D2.1 point to limited situational awareness due to fragmented or overwhelming data streams. D2.2 reinforces this by identifying persistent difficulties in integrating and validating data from multiple sources. Looking ahead, D2.3 stresses that effective decision-making will increasingly depend on advanced analytics, real-time data integration and explainable decision-support tools.

Multi-stakeholder collaboration is identified as a structural capability gap, reflecting the growing need for coordinated action between responders, authorities, industry, researchers and citizens. While D2.1 highlights challenges in coordination and role clarity, D2.2 shows that collaboration gaps remain a priority, particularly in the context of innovation uptake and joint operations. D2.3 further expands this theme by emphasising the importance of inclusive governance models to address complex and systemic risks.

Skills, training and workforce development form a recurring theme across all cycles. D2.1 identifies gaps in training related to new technologies and complex operational environments. D2.2 confirms that insufficient skills and limited joint training opportunities hinder effective collaboration and technology adoption. From a long-term perspective, D2.3 highlights the growing need for continuous upskilling, digital literacy and adaptive training models to prepare responders for future challenges.

Future-proofing capabilities for emerging risks captures the forward-looking dimension of the WP2 analysis. While D2.1 and D2.2 primarily focus on current and near-term gaps, D2.3 extends the assessment to long-term challenges driven by climate change, cascading crises, digitalisation and societal change. This theme underscores the need for anticipatory capability development and strategic planning beyond immediate operational needs.