Sonar-Cities: Social science co-creative research on disasters and health crises in Europe's cities

The Sonar-Cities project aims to improve European cities' management of and resilience to crises and disasters.

The aim of the project Sonar-Cities (Social Sciences Participatory Research-Action for Preparedness in Risk Management for Disasters and Health Emergencies in Europe's Cities) is to improve European cities' management of and resilience to crises and disasters. This is done through co-creative research and implementation of a locally generated tool that is aimed at people who experience vulnerability, first responders and decision-makers. The ambition to increase inclusion in risk management is a key element of Sonar-Cities.

Inclusive preparedness and increased insights into health and crisis communication

Case studies enable a focus on so-called One Health factors (including the interaction between humans, animals and nature) and consequences of previous crises in six European cities. The focus is on the experiences of people who are exposed to different forms of vulnerability. The analyses are used to, together with vulnerable public, emergency personnel and authorities, co-create a citizen-centered tool that will generate inclusive preparedness, increase insights into health and crisis communication, strengthen capacity and basis for decision-making, and reduce health risks in crises and disasters in European cities.

Urban population exposed to crises

Research and development within Sonar-Cities is central because crises and disasters pose an enormous burden on the capacities of cities, states and the EU as a whole – in addition to pre-existing challenges linked to climate, politics, economy and social conditions. Risks and consequences linked to crises are unevenly distributed and have a negative impact on the health and well-being of Europe's citizens. Cities face major challenges when it comes to preparing for and managing disasters. The population in cities has a higher mortality rate during crises, and as a consequence of crises can be exposed to instability that results in increased health inequalities.

Contributing to increased urban resilience in disasters and crises

Vulnerable urban residents are at risk of exclusion and health consequences during a crisis, with a lack of access to health information, resources, care and support. Sonar-Cities will help make Europe's cities more resilient to disasters and crises. The co-created tool, together with a knowledge platform, will disseminate results to a broad network and provide resources for authorities that want research-based support in developing their preparedness with a focus on improved health.

Project leader at the Swedish Defence University: Dr. Lindy Newlove-Eriksson, Senior Lecturer in Political Science.

Other participants at the Swedish Defence University: Edward Deverell, Associate Professor of Political Science, Arita Holmberg, Associate Professor of Political Science