The Functioning of the Civil Protection and Disaster Relief System During the 2023 Floods: A Qualitative Analysis of the Experiences of Civil Protection Representatives at the Local Level

After the catastrophic floods of 2023, a self-analysis of the functioning of the system of protection against natural and other disasters was prepared. Based on the analysis of the findings at the national and local levels, a focus group was conducted with civil protection representatives of some municipalities in Carinthia. The analysis aimed to identify examples of good practices of multi-agency cooperation in resolving complex crises with an emphasis on the effective coordination of the protection, rescue and assistance system, overcoming key obstacles and formulating recommendations. The findings indicate the importance of preliminary organisation, preparation and equipment of the protection and rescue forces in the municipality, the importance of internalising tasks within the competence of mayors, the need for self-sufficiency of organisations participating in interventions in the event of large-scale disasters and the importance of civil protection commissioners and self-initiative. The participation of volunteers is also critically evaluated.