Defence organizations in emergency networks: the early response to COVID-19 in Europe

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study is to analyse the crisis network response of European countries and the role played by defence organizations (DOs) during the early response phase of the pandemic, here set to encompass 75 days. Design/methodology/approach Published materials – reports, news and communications – provided by authorities and DOs were used. Some of the authors actively participated in national pandemic response networks. An exploratory approach and qualitative content analysis were applied. The data were collected in national languages from 13 European countries, and they were coded and analysed using the actors, resources and activities (ARA) framework. Findings This study identified three main categories of activity structures in which the DOs interacted with civilian members of response networks, health-related services, logistics services and public support services. These networks among actors were found within formal response systems and emergent networks. The DOs engaged as actors that provided a range of services when civil authorities could not cope with the huge demand for specific services and when resources were scarce in the initial response phase. Originality/value This study contributes by filling an important research gap with regard to the civil-military relations associated with the use of DO resources in the civil response to the pandemic crisis in Europe, which is described as an untraditional response. The ARA network approach provides a framework for arranging ARA and extends the wider civil-military network to expand the formal networks of the early crisis response. The study lays knowledge about the co-operation between civilian and military actors in different contexts and provides a broader understanding of the roles that DOs played in the response operations.

CIV-MIL integration in the transformation of the EU healthcare network: a dual-gain strategy

“…The COVID-19 crisis has presented an opportunity for most Allied militaries to collaborate effectively with civilian healthcare systems and provide a wide range of services to address vulnerabilities at the local, national, and multinational levels (Kaneberg et al, 2023). Numerous examples can be found throughout NATO, particularly in response to the initial shock when healthcare infrastructure struggled to cope with a surge in demand for care and a limited reserve of capabilities (Gad et al, 2021).…”

Unveiling the Dynamics of Organizational Characteristics in Disaster Management: Insights from Kuwait

“…Similarly, Kim and Zakour [18] examined non-profit Human Service Organizations and discovered that organizational size significantly influenced the disaster preparedness of such organizations. Additionally, Kaneberg et al [19] examined the role of defense organizations in crisis response, highlighting the significant role of organizational type in shaping response efforts. These findings suggest that organizational type can play a significant role in disaster management, warranting further investigation within the Kuwaiti context.…”

“…The COVID-19 pandemic has served as a backdrop for exploring new variables in disaster management practices. Kaneberg et al [19] and López-Vizcarra et al [26] examined how violence and the pandemic influenced organizational response and resilience. The latter study, in particular, provides insights into how supply chain strategies, particularly risk management programs, can mitigate the impacts of external crises on organizational performance.…”