Berlin, January 10 – The German Civil Service Federation (dbb) has issued a stark warning regarding the vulnerability of critical infrastructure in Germany, citing a recent multi-day power outage in Berlin as evidence of insufficient preparedness. According to dbb chairman Volker Geyer, a similar blackout scenario could unfold in other German cities at any time.
Berlin Blackout Exposes Infrastructure Weaknesses
The extensive power failure, which left approximately 50,000 residents in southwestern Berlin without electricity, heating, internet, and mobile communication from Saturday to Wednesday, has highlighted significant gaps in the country’s crisis management. “Berlin has shown that one is not prepared for crises of this kind. This is a catastrophe,” Geyer told the Rheinische Post.
Geyer emphasized the urgent need to review the control mechanisms and legal requirements for operators of critical infrastructure. He stressed that the state must not allow itself to be exposed in such a manner, as the public expects a capable government, especially during crises.
Privatization of Infrastructure a Contributing Factor
The dbb chairman pointed to the privatization of critical infrastructure as a significant problem. He specifically mentioned energy supply, telecommunications networks, and railways as examples where privatization might limit the state’s ability to act effectively during emergencies.
The power outage in Berlin was reportedly caused by an arson attack, allegedly carried out by left-wing extremists, on power cables. This incident has reignited the debate on how to best protect Germany’s critical infrastructure from such attacks.
Calls for Increased Investment in Civil Protection
The German Red Cross (DRK) had previously called for more investments in civil protection following the Berlin power outage. This sentiment is echoed by the dbb, which underscores the need for robust measures to safeguard essential services.
Authorities are currently investigating the arson attack with suspicions of terrorist involvement, highlighting the severe implications of such disruptions. The incident serves as a critical reminder of the interconnectedness of modern life and the profound impact a loss of essential services can have on a large population, particularly during winter months.
While power was gradually restored to affected areas, the incident has prompted a nationwide discussion on urban resilience and the need for comprehensive strategies to prevent and respond to future blackouts. The dbb’s warning underscores the urgency of these discussions and the necessity for immediate action to bolster Germany’s critical infrastructure against both accidental failures and malicious attacks.
The German Civil Service Federation’s statement serves as a wake-up call for policymakers to prioritize the security and resilience of essential services, ensuring that cities are adequately prepared to handle such crises and protect their citizens.
