SPD Calls for Greater Protection for Saxony's Critical Infrastructure

The SPD has proposed a network of “beacons” for disaster response in Saxony. “This refers to centrally planned, local emergency response centers for the public that are only activated in specific emergency situations,” said State Parliament Representative Sophie Koch to the German Press Agency. As examples, she cited a prolonged, widespread power outage (blackout), severe storms, or a widespread telecommunications failure.

In Saxony, there are already isolated plans for such beacons. However, municipalities must be supported in developing a comprehensive network. “Protecting critical infrastructure also means that our population is prepared for emergencies and must know who to turn to,” Koch emphasized. This requires both information campaigns and disaster response “lighthouses” in the municipalities. 

Critical Infrastructure Is Vulnerable

In light of incidents at the Leipzig/Halle Airport and the attempted sabotage of power grids, the SPD caucus addressed the protection of critical infrastructure in the state parliament last Wednesday. “The incidents of the past few months starkly demonstrate how vulnerable our critical infrastructure is,” said State Parliament member Albrecht Pallas. “Whether it’s drone attacks, attempted sabotage at substations, or security vulnerabilities at airports: we cannot rely on the absence of major damage remaining a matter of luck.”

Hybrid attacks pose new challenges

“This goes far beyond airports and power grids. Hospitals, emergency services, water and food supplies, and communication networks must also function during times of crisis,” explained the domestic policy expert and security specialist. “Hybrid attacks and sabotage by foreign actors, in particular, present us with new challenges.” It is essential to systematically strengthen Saxony’s resilience to crises. “The police, fire departments, emergency medical services, and disaster response agencies must remain capable of acting even during prolonged outages. This requires reliable equipment and viable strategies,” Pallas explained.

He believes it is essential to ensure emergency power and fuel supplies for several days, as well as crisis-resilient communication. “Our crisis planning must not end after 72 hours. At the same time, we must strengthen volunteer efforts, for example by providing solutions for childcare and caregiving responsibilities during extended deployments.” The general public must also be better prepared for crises, and the involvement of spontaneous volunteers must be organized.