Hybrid Influence on Rescue Services

Abstract

Society may face significant threats from hybrid influence, which blends physical, psychological, and technological methods to disrupt, manipulate, or confuse members and actors of society. Rescue services, which are an integral part of society, may become affected by or even a direct target for hybrid operations. This study examines the impacts of hybrid influence on rescue services. The need for enhanced situational awareness, coordinated responses, and resilience-building measures becomes emphasised. Hybrid influence and hybrid war, situational awareness, and responses to hybrid threats were investigated using a structured literature review. The findings highlight the significance of comprehensive security models and international cooperation in effectively tackling hybrid threats. It is recommended to conduct further research to deepen our understanding and develop robust strategies and practical secure knowledge management and information sharing systems to protect rescue services from hybrid influence.