Preparedness, Planning and Economic Security Program (PPES) Semi-Annual Report #10

The report highlights key achievements and progress made by the program in strengthening national capacity, economic security, and business support activities. Preparedness and planning efforts have led to significant improvements in municipal emergency management. Municipalities are investing more in preparedness and response, with a notable increase in emergency management budget preservation despite economic hardship. The program has certified 40 new municipalities, bringing the total number of certified municipalities to 60. These municipalities have demonstrated a proactive approach to preparedness and prevention, with certified municipalities working together to improve emergency management. The Nis Safety Strategy is a notable example of a city revitalizing its emergency management approach. Kraljevo, a municipality with a geography that mandates the need for preparedness, has successfully managed an earthquake through effective national-local coordination. The Kraljevo case study highlights the importance of testing national-local coordination in emergency situations. Capacity building is a key aspect of the PPES program. The National Training Center (NTC) and municipal training and technical assistance have been instrumental in building capacity. The addition of 40 new municipalities to the PPES municipal certification process has expanded the program's reach. The inclusion of SEM and NTC in curriculum and training delivery for mayors has ensured that emergency management is integrated into municipal planning. Certification is a critical component of the PPES program. The municipal mayors training has been successful in equipping mayors with the necessary skills to manage emergency situations. The postcard feature highlights the success stories of municipalities such as Dimitrovgrad and Kragujevac, which have implemented prevention activities and transitioned from initiation to preparation. Building national infrastructure is essential for the PPES program's success. The Sector for Emergency Management has been established, and a transition plan has been developed to ensure continuity of the PPES methodology. A permanent NTC office and training facility have been established, and international cooperation has been strengthened through a U.S. study visit for SEM and NTC senior management. The PPES program has also made significant progress in economic security. Business support activities have had a positive impact, with sales data analysis indicating a significant increase in sales. The methodology used for sales data analysis involved a research sample and data analysis. The cumulative sales analysis showed a significant increase in sales, with exports playing a crucial role in aligning with national economic strategy. Regional differences in sales data were also observed, with market sector analysis highlighting the importance of food, apparel, tourism and services, and light manufacturing sectors.