National Security and Civil Protection - Community Security

Framsókn emphasises the implementation of the newly approved national security policy as of 28 February 2023, which ensures the independence, sovereignty, and inviolability of Iceland's borders, the safety of citizens, energy security, food security, and the protection of the governance system and community infrastructure.

The national security policy reflects a broad perspective on national security; security encompasses multifaceted threats, whether internal or external, man-made or due to natural disasters.

Framsókn wants a strategy regarding natural disasters to be devised that outlines how long-term management of natural disasters should be handled and ensures the involvement of municipalities, institutions, and other relevant parties.

Recent actions taken due to volcanic eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula have highlighted the necessity of strengthening the management of crucial infrastructures such as roads, housing, electricity, geothermal heating, and aviation. Meanwhile, the threat of cyber attacks on public operations, companies, and individuals has increased, and wars worldwide are escalating.

Framsókn considers it socially important to strengthen the development of essential infrastructure to ensure data security domestically.

When revising the laws on civil protection, it must be ensured that the locations where the expenses arising from measures in a civil protection state fall are clarified.

Knowledge and Training of Community Leaders Ensured

Framsókn wants to strengthen the knowledge of those leading the community (e.g., ministers, permanent secretaries, municipal managers, and local government officials) regarding actions due to community disturbances. Framsókn also emphasises the creation of credible plans and policies on how to act to ensure robust and efficient recovery, such as the rebuilding of infrastructure and livelihoods.

It is important to compile the experience of those leaders who have dealt with community disruption and establish a consultation forum aimed at enabling the organised sharing of experience and knowledge between parties.

Increased Focus on the Perspectives of Disaster Survivors Ensured

Framsókn emphasises that new laws on social security should consider the interests and perspectives of disaster survivors when and after they are tested. Survivors' perspectives should take precedence in terms of readiness, actions, and community rebuilding. Individuals and families experience varying degrees of disruption when their community is disrupted. Some, for example, find it inconvenient to have to evacuate their homes but can return, while others lose everything. Uncertainty is difficult for survivors and should be minimised by improving the support around them.