Study Reveals Most German Companies Unprepared for Wartime Scenarios

A recent survey conducted by the German Economic Institute (IW) has highlighted significant gaps in the preparedness of German businesses for potential wartime disruptions. The study, which gathered responses from over 1,000 companies across Germany, found that only a minority have implemented measures to mitigate risks associated with war, such as infrastructure failures or disruptions in personnel and supply chains.

According to the findings, just over 20 percent of surveyed businesses reported having contingency plans in place to address the failure of critical infrastructure. Even more concerning, only about 5 percent indicated readiness for personnel shortages that could arise from the conscription of employees, such as reservists, into the military. The survey also exposed widespread vulnerabilities regarding supply chain interruptions, as many companies acknowledged a lack of strategies to handle such challenges in the event of a conflict.

On a more positive note, the majority of firms have made considerable efforts to protect themselves against cyber threats. Approximately 86 percent of respondents stated they have established cybersecurity measures, reflecting growing awareness of the risks posed by digital attacks in both peacetime and crisis situations.

The report underscores the critical role that a resilient and adaptable private sector would play during a national emergency. The researchers emphasized that the overall defense capability of the country depends not only on military readiness but also on the ability of the business sector to maintain operations and support broader societal resilience. The analysis suggests that effective emergency and crisis management plans, as well as robust communication channels between businesses, the military, and aid organizations, are essential for comprehensive national defense.

Historically, the perceived risk of armed conflict in Germany had diminished considerably following the end of the Cold War. For many years, the prospect of war in Europe seemed remote. However, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which began nearly four years ago, has prompted a reassessment of security risks across the continent. The persistence of military aggression in Eastern Europe, combined with shifts in international alliances and foreign policies, has increased the perceived likelihood of a security crisis affecting Germany.

The study concludes that stronger coordination between government, industry, and emergency services is necessary to ensure Germany's economic and defense structures are robust enough to withstand the pressures of armed conflict. The authors recommend that companies develop and regularly update emergency plans, invest in supply chain resilience, and enhance cooperation with relevant authorities to better prepare for a range of crisis scenarios.