THE ROLE OF DIGITALIZATION IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AUTHORITIES AT THE PRESENT STAGE
Abstract
Digitalization has become a critical factor in the modernization of emergency management authorities in response to the growing complexity of natural, technological, and social emergencies. This article examines the role of digitalization in the development of emergency management bodies at the present stage, focusing on its impact on operational efficiency, coordination mechanisms, and decision-making processes. The study is based on the analysis of scientific literature, policy documents, and practical experiences related to the application of digital technologies in emergency management. The results indicate that the integration of digital tools such as geographic information systems, early warning platforms, real-time communication systems, and data analytics significantly reduces response time, improves inter-agency cooperation, and enhances preparedness and prevention capabilities. At the same time, the study identifies key challenges associated with digital transformation, including infrastructural limitations, human resource capacity, and cybersecurity risks. The article concludes that digitalization should be regarded as a strategic priority requiring a comprehensive institutional approach to ensure sustainable and effective emergency management in the digital era.
Keywords
digitalization, emergency management authorities, digital technologies, disaster response, decision-making, public safety.
References
- United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction. Global Assessment Report on Disaster Risk Reduction. Geneva: UNDRR; 2019.
- World Bank. Digital Development Overview: Leveraging Technology for Emergency Management. Washington, DC: World Bank; 2020.
- World Health Organization. Emergency Response Framework (ERF). 2nd ed. Geneva: WHO; 2017.
- OECD. The Path to Becoming a Data-Driven Public Sector. Paris: OECD Publishing; 2019.
- https://doi.org/10.1787/059814a7-en
- Alexander D. Emergency Management and Disaster Response Using Information Technology. Oxford: Oxford University Press; 2018.
- International Organization for Standardization. ISO 22320:2018 — Security and resilience: Emergency management — Guidelines for incident management. Geneva: ISO; 2018.
- Kapucu N, Arslan T, Collins M. Examining intergovernmental and interorganizational response to catastrophic disasters: Toward a network-centered approach. Administration & Society. 2010;42(2):222–247.
- Chen R, Sharman R, Rao H, Upadhyaya S.Coordination in emergency response management. Communications of the ACM. 2008;51(5):66–73.