The discussion on civil defense and the protection of the civilian population is not only a social or humanitarian issue. In fact, it is directly linked to the operational readiness of the Armed Forces. In the case of Cyprus, the lack of an adequate network of shelters and the limited information of citizens about their suitability create a critical problem that affects not only the safety of citizens but also the effectiveness of the mobilization of the National Guard.
According to recent data, there are approximately 2.500 shelters in Cyprus, which can only cover 40-45% of the population.
This means that in the event of a generalized crisis or armed conflict, hundreds of thousands of citizens do not know where they can seek protection.
The problem is not only quantitative. It is mainly operational.
The psychology of the reservist soldier
The structure of Cyprus's defense is largely based on:
• in the reserves
• to the national guards
• rapid mobilization.
In crisis situations, the success of mobilization depends on one critical factor: the psychological availability of personnel to abandon their families and report to the unit.
But when a reservist:
• he doesn't know where his children will go,
• has no clear idea whether there is shelter available,
• or doubts the suitability of the facilities,
then a natural dilemma arises: family or duty?
In real combat conditions, this dilemma can delay or even prevent the timely presentation of personnel to units.
Impact on operational readiness
Uncertainty about the safety of reservists' families can cause:
1.Delayed mobilization
In the event of a sudden crisis, even a few hours of delay can be critical for:
• the development of units
• the manning of weapons systems
• the defense organization.
2. Reduced staff availability
Some reservists may remain with their families until their safety is assured.
3. Disorganization of local defense
National Guardsmen are often the first line of response at the local level. If they are late in showing up, the defense of specific areas is weakened.
4. Operational stress
Constant worry about family affects:
• concentration
• decision-making
• the soldier's psychological endurance.
In military psychology, family security is considered a critical factor in combat effectiveness.
The problem of information
A second important issue is the lack of knowledge among citizens about shelters.
Despite the existence of apps or directories, a large part of the population:
doesn't know where the nearest shelter is
doesn't know if there is a position
doesn't know if it's functional.
In real crisis conditions, this can lead to:
• panic
• traffic jam
• spontaneous population movements.
All of this creates additional problems in military mobilization.
The vicious circle of political defense and military preparedness
Civil defense and military preparedness are not independent systems.
On the contrary, they function as communicating vessels.
When:
• citizens feel safe
• they know where to go
• there is organized planning
then:
• reserves are presented faster
• the units are fully manned
• the defense is functioning effectively.
On the contrary, when uncertainty prevails, the problem is immediately transferred to the operational level.
What should be done?
To address the problem, specific measures are required:
1. Mapping and transparency:
Public and clear recording:
• shelter locations
• capacity
• suitability.
2. Connecting shelters with mobilization
Every reservist family should know which shelter they belong to.
3. Regular civil defense exercises
Just as there are military exercises, there must also be:
• shelter exercises
• evacuation drills.
Conclusion
The protection of the civilian population is not only a humanitarian obligation of a state. It is also a critical factor in the effectiveness of its defense.
When reservists know their families are safe, they can immediately respond to their duty. However, when there is uncertainty about the safety of citizens, this uncertainty inevitably transfers to the field of defense.
Strengthening shelters and properly informing the population are not only civil protection measures.
They constitute essential measures to enhance the country's operational readiness.
Dimitris Koumis Candidate for MP for Famagusta – DISY
