Security Union: EU funding available for projects dealing with the protection of public spaces

Under the call Protecting the infrastructure of Europe and the people in European smart cities, the Horizon 2020 Secure Societies work programme 2019 contains a dedicated topic with the aim of developing innovative solutions for the protection of public spaces[1]. This topic goes along the lines of the Action Plan to support the Protection of Public Spaces and follows upon the conclusions of forums organised by DG HOME, such as the EU Operators' Forum.

In order to create further knowledge and create innovative technologies which can serve for mitigating the threat of terrorist attacks (or other malicious acts) in public spaces, the Commission has launched this topic with a budget of €16 Million for possibly two projects in which applicants should address the problem in up to 24 months.

Applicants are invited to take into account interconnected and complex networks and systems in a smart city context. Projects are expected to explore solutions which make use of the infrastructure for detection resources and "big data" collection in order to enhance capabilities for responding to threats against public spaces. The focus should be on open platforms for sharing and managing information among public and private service operators and security practitioners. Projects could consider how to combine, for example, methods to detect weapons, explosives or toxic substances with systems for video surveillance and methods to identify and neutralise perpetrators.

In order to ensure that explored solutions respond to actual operational needs, at least two local governments located in two Members States or Associated Countries must be part of the consortium. In addition, the participation of industry able to provide security solutions is required.

The deadline for submitting proposals is 22 August 2019. More information can be found on the F&T-Portal.