Private security is essential for European resilience, according to CoESS

Eduardo Cobas stated at SICUR that private security strengthens the resilience of critical infrastructure and public spaces by positioning itself as a key strategic industry for maintaining the continuity of essential services in Europe. In his view, this strengthening is achieved through a series of pillars, among which operational capacity and the human factor stand out. According to him, resilience does not depend solely on technical solutions, but also on real operational capabilities, where the human and organisational factor is crucial. In fact, European legislation, such as the CER Directive (2022/2557), implicitly recognise that the quality of personnel is vital to the recovery capacity of an infrastructure.

Another key element in strengthening infrastructure and public spaces is structured public-private cooperation. Strengthening infrastructure requires close coordination between public authorities and the private sector. This collaboration makes it possible to develop emergency protocols, coordination mechanisms and a smoother exchange of information.

Verifiable quality

For resilience to be effective, it must be based on verifiable quality throughout the entire security chain. The main instrument for moving from the legal framework to operational practice is Standard EN 17483, which establishes general and specific requirements for critical sectors such as airports, ports, energy and healthcare. Its importance lies in the fact that the resilience of critical infrastructure cannot depend solely on laws, but on verifiable quality across the entire security chain.

The standard is not generic; rather, it is being implemented in specific modules to address the particular needs of each critical infrastructure sector. Thus, EN 17483-1 sets out the general requirements and an advanced certification process; EN 17483-2 and EN 17483-3 are the standards already approved for airports and ports; EN 17483-4 is specific to the energy sector (in the final stage of development); and EN 17483-5 is aimed at the healthcare sector (in the initial stage).

On the other hand, there is a shift from purely reactive protection to integrated preparedness. This means anticipating crises that are becoming more frequent and prolonged, while ensuring that services such as transport, hospitals and nuclear power plants can continue operating.

Social perception

According to surveys cited by Cobas, public perception of private security in crisis situations is largely positive, with broad support for its role and presence during critical moments. Nearly 3 out of 4 citizens (73%) consider a greater presence of private security to be appropriate or very appropriate in response to increasing threats such as terrorism or climate-related emergencies (for example, the DANA weather event). This 73% support is specifically reflected in the need to strengthen security in strategic sectors such as transport, hospitals, nuclear power plants, ports and water supply.

Sixty-three percent of the population agree or strongly agree that private security constitutes an essential service for citizens during emergency or crisis situations. By contrast, only 10% disagree with this statement. This perception has been influenced by high-impact events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the consequences of the DANA in Valencia, where private security played a significant role.