CRISMART

Science and Practical Experience

A few years ago researchers began speaking of a "new" category of crisis that reflected changes in local as well as global society, and which challenged the crisis management capacity of both state and non-state actors. These new crises were seen as unique in their scope, complexity and ambiguity. The challenges they presented were made all the more difficult by a multitude of changes in the political, administrative, economic and media landscape.

How truly "new" these crises are can be debated. It is, however, clear that this debate was far-sighted. Contemporary governments are still shaken by the effects of the global financial crisis, and now face a wide range of threats, including H1N1 (swine influenza), piracy and terrorism, to name a few. Since the crisis management mission is becoming more difficult while public (and private) expectations on organizations increase, the need for better and more effective communication of knowledge on threats, context, and best practices has become all the more important.

CRISMART combines scientific methods and proven experience for developing and spreading knowledge on crisis management on the local, national and international level.

Through our activities within research, analytical support and education, we are a resource and instigating factor that helps organizations on all levels of society increase their understanding for crisis management and enhance their crisis management capacity.

We strive to identify functioning and non-functioning instances in the management of various types of crises, and draw lessons from these experiences.

Eric K. Stern

Professor of Political Science