Federal Ministry Proposes Civil Protection Education in Schools

The Federal Ministry of the Interior has advocated for the inclusion of civil protection education in school curricula, emphasizing the need for young individuals to be prepared for crises and potential wartime scenarios. In light of the recent developments in the security landscape, a ministry spokesperson stated that there should be a stronger emphasis on civil protection as part of the educational framework.

Although the responsibility for determining educational content lies with the federal states, the ministry expressed its willingness to support this initiative by providing informational materials for both students and educators. The ministry also welcomed a recent initiative from the European Commission aimed at preparing citizens for crisis situations resulting from conflict.

As part of this initiative, the ministry advised the public to stockpile essential supplies, such as water and food, to manage temporary crises effectively. A spokesperson mentioned that having a supply for at least 72 hours can help individuals navigate through challenging situations.

In addition to these recommendations, Roderich Kiesewetter, a security policy expert from the CDU party, proposed that schools implement crisis training programs. He emphasized the importance of practicing emergency responses, particularly for students who might be more vulnerable in such scenarios. Kiesewetter argued for a foundational education on how to behave during emergencies, suggesting that this approach would not only benefit students but also align with the concept of a societal service, similar to practices in Finland where such training has been a longstanding component of school curricula.

By fostering a culture of preparedness within educational institutions, the ministry aims to equip future generations with the knowledge and skills necessary to respond effectively in emergencies and crises.