In our ever-changing world, places of worship (PoWs) face unique security challenges.
These sacred spaces, embodying core societal values like inclusion, freedom of faith, and solidarity, are often open and welcoming by nature. However, this openness can make them vulnerable to various threats. To address these challenges, the SPIRIT project has developed the Enhanced Vulnerability Assessment Methodology (EVAM), aimed at helping religious leaders and PoW operators better understand and mitigate these risks.
Understanding the SPIRIT Project
The SPIRIT project conducted detailed vulnerability assessments for six different places of worship in partner countries. This project serves as a valuable resource for PoW operators and religious leaders to become more familiar with vulnerability assessment methodologies, helping them prepare for and respond to potential threats.
Why Vulnerability Assessments Matter
Places of worship are symbols of faith and community. Threats to these sites impact both the physical structure and the community’s sense of security. Their open nature often means they lack adequate security measures.
Introducing the Enhanced Vulnerability Assessment Methodology (EVAM)
The SPIRIT EVAM supports PoWs by raising awareness of vulnerabilities and recommending steps for better protection. This enhanced methodology takes a holistic approach, involving law enforcement, security professionals, faith leaders, and religious representatives. The EVAM consists of six steps tailored to PoWs’ needs.The Six Steps of EVAM
- Assemble the Team: Form a team with the right people to conduct the assessment. This team includes the core team, involved team, and informed team.
- Understand the Site: Assess the PoW’s characteristics, vulnerabilities, and capacity to handle threats. This involves studying both the structural aspects and the surrounding community.
- Threat Assessment: Evaluate potential threats using a scenario-based approach, considering historical data and statistical analysis.
- Risk Assessment: Calculate the likelihood and consequences of identified threats to determine the level of risk.
- Assess Vulnerability and Capacity: Identify weaknesses and strengths of the PoW to better understand how to counter risks.
- Propose Security Measures: Suggest appropriate security measures based on the assessment, ranging from prevention to response strategies.
Tools and Best Practices
The EVAM provides a set of tools for each step, including assessment criteria tables and PoW profiles. Best practices in vulnerability assessment involve using standardized procedures, tools, and techniques that have proven effective in identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities.
The EVAM was tested through six workshops across Europe, where PoWs were assessed, and feedback was gathered to refine the methodology. These workshops highlighted the importance of continuous and holistic evaluation of risks and vulnerabilities.
Tools: Advanced assessment tools are employed to ensure comprehensive evaluations. These tools help in measuring risk and vulnerability accurately and effectively.
Use Cases: Practical scenarios illustrate the methodology in action. Scenarios include:
- Firearms Attack: Assessments conducted at the Holocaust Museum of Greece in Thessaloniki.
- Sharp Object Attack: Evaluations at the Church of Faneromeni.
- Vandalism: Analysis at Basilica dels Sants Màrtirs Just i Pastor in Barcelona.
Key Features of the EVAM
Participatory Process: Engages faith-based communities, fostering cooperation among stakeholders.
Vulnerability Identification and Mitigation: Helps communities understand their weak and strong points through a structured process.
Multi-Sectoral Approach: Involves first responders, local authorities, faith leaders, and community members to ensure a comprehensive strategy.
Cooperation and Collaboration: Encourages increased cooperation between law enforcement agencies (LEAs) and faith-based organizations.
The SPIRIT EVAM is a valuable resource for PoW operators and religious leaders, providing a comprehensive approach to security and vulnerability assessment. As threats evolve, our methods must adapt. Continuous assessment and adaptation are essential to protecting these sacred spaces and their role in faith and community. By adopting the SPIRIT EVAM, PoW operators can enhance their preparedness, ensuring that they are better equipped to deter, detect, mitigate, and respond to threats, thereby safeguarding both the physical structures and the values they represent.
Author: KEMEA
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