Overview
Protecting European citizens from terrorist attacks is of key importance to the European Union.
In recent years, terrorism has affected almost every sphere of human life, be it economic, political, social or psychological. Terroristic acts target the very cultural identity of people and pose a threat to our way of living. Terrorist acts have recurrently targeted unprotected public spaces such as urban centres, recreational venues, places of worship and commercial centres.
In accordance with the Action Plan to support the protection of public spaces the European Commission is committed to support EU countries to protect their citizens.
The JRC, in collaboration with the Commission Directorate-General for migration and home affairs (DG HOME), aims to provide European-level solutions to urban challenges, adopting a 'city-as-a-whole' perspective.
We study the effects of threats, devise mitigating solutions and propose guidance material for EU countries, city authorities and operators.
Our research is in line with the 'security by design' concept: that security is addressed from the conception of the public space project.
Data and tools
This website offers tools, guidance and data to counter terrorism in public spaces. It offers tools to assess the vulnerability of buildings or public squares, and offers guidelines how to protect the exploration of such kind of vulnerabilities.
Related links
A Counter-Terrorism Agenda for the EU: Anticipate, Prevent, Protect, Respond
EU Action Plan to Support the Protection of Public Spaces
Handbook Security by Design: Protection of public spaces from terrorist attacks
Commission Staff Working Document on Good Practices to Support the Protection of Public Spaces