The Netherlands depends on well-functioning energy systems, communication, transport and logistics. If one or more of these systems are disrupted for a prolonged period, this can have major consequences for citizens and for the operational readiness of the armed forces. That is why the Dutch government is investing in emergency support points for citizens and in better cooperation between civil and military organizations.
During a crisis, emergency support points can provide basic services such as water, energy and information. Coordination points can help align medical aid, transport and military support more effectively. But where should such points be located? How many are needed? How should they be set up? And how effective is such a network in different crisis situations?
There is not yet a sound, scientifically supported answer to these questions. VORTEX therefore investigates how emergency support points and coordination points can best contribute to the resilience of the Netherlands. The project looks at both societal support and military operational readiness. To do this, the researchers combine practical experience, pilots and computational models. “We will look at experiences in areas that are already facing crises, but we will also carry out pilots ourselves and calculate solutions that help us respond more quickly and effectively,” says project leader Caroline Jagtenberg, who is affiliated with the Operations Analytics group at VU Amsterdam.
“CWI brings in expertise in quantitative models and optimisation techniques,” says Rob van der Mei, affiliated with CWI’s Stochastics group and Professor of Applied Mathematics at VU Amsterdam. “We will also help translate the research results into practice.”
International context
Ultimately, the project will deliver blueprints, computational models and policy recommendations for safety regions, municipalities and national governments. The results will be shared with the parties involved, including through a workshop.
VORTEX will not only help the Netherlands become better prepared. The project also supports European plans to organise military transport within the EU more quickly and effectively. In the future, the approach could also be used in other EU member states, helping countries work together more effectively in emergency situations.
About VORTEX
VORTEX brings together several public and private partners. In addition to Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and CWI, the consortium includes Eindhoven University of Technology, Erasmus University Rotterdam, the Ministry of Defence, the Netherlands Institute for Public Safety, several safety regions and Axira.
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