Integrating Psychosocial Support into Emergency and Disaster Management and Public Safety: The Role of the Red Cross of Serbia

Authors

  • Ljubica Janković Scientific-Professional Society for Disaster Risk Management, Dimitrija Tucovića 121, 11040 Belgrade, Serbia Author
  • Vladimir M. Cvetković Department of Disaster Management and Environmental Security, Faculty of Security Studies, University of Belgrade, Gospodara Vucica 50, 11040 Belgrade, Serbia Author
  • Jasmina Gačić Department of Disaster Management and Environmental Security, Faculty of Security Studies, University of Belgrade, Gospodara Vucica 50, 11040 Belgrade, Serbia Author
  • Renate Renner Safety and Disaster Studies, Chair of Thermal Processing Technology, Department of Environmental and Energy Process Engineering, Technical University of Leoben, Austria Author
  • Vladimir Jakovljević Department of Disaster Management and Environmental Security, Faculty of Security Studies, University of Belgrade, Gospodara Vucica 50, 11040 Belgrade, Serbia Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18485/fb_ijcss.2025.1.1.8

Keywords:

psychosocial first aid, emergency and disaster response, mental health, Red Cross of Serbia, disaster resilience, humanitarian assistance, crisis intervention

Abstract

As emergencies and disasters continue to strain public health systems globally, integrating psychosocial support into national response frameworks has emerged as a critical, though often overlooked, priority. This study examines the role of the Red Cross of Serbia in delivering Psychosocial First Aid (PFA), highlighting it as a vital yet underrepresented component within the broader scope of emergency response. Grounded in a theoretical framework, the paper outlines the core principles of PFA, its significance during crises, and the psychosocial impact of disasters on individuals and communities. It further explores the relationship between mental health and community resilience, underscoring the importance of mental recovery in disaster contexts. Utilising a qualitative approach, the study draws on an expert interview with a representative of the Red Cross of Serbia to investigate the current state of PFA implementation. Particular attention is given to institutional integration, training protocols, and prevailing public perceptions of psychosocial support. The findings reveal a significant disparity between the established provision of medical first aid and the marginal status of psychosocial assistance. Key barriers identified include insufficient institutional acknowledgement, a lack of structured and standardised training programs, and limited awareness of PFA as a distinct and necessary intervention. Despite these challenges, the Red Cross of Serbia has initiated several promising efforts—such as developing educational materials, training volunteers, and establishing internal support mechanisms—which provide a solid foundation for future advancement. This paper argues for the systematic inclusion of psychosocial support in emergency management strategies. It emphasises the need for coordinated, evidence-informed, and person-centred approaches to fostering health and resilience in disaster-affected communities.

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Author Biography

  • Vladimir M. Cvetković, Department of Disaster Management and Environmental Security, Faculty of Security Studies, University of Belgrade, Gospodara Vucica 50, 11040 Belgrade, Serbia

    Professor in Disaster Risk Management at the University of Belgrade, Faculty of Security Studies. Engaged in disaster studies research for 15 years. Author of over 300 scientific papers and 30 monographs. Founder and President of the Society for Disaster Risk Management, Director of the International Institute for Disaster Research, and Editor-in-Chief of the International Journal of Disaster Risk Management. Visiting Professor at Technical University of Leoben,Safety and Disaster Man., Austria.

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30.06.2025

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International Journal of Contemporary Security Studies

How to Cite

Janković, L., M. Cvetković, V., Gačić, J., Renner, R., & Jakovljević, V. . (2025). Integrating Psychosocial Support into Emergency and Disaster Management and Public Safety: The Role of the Red Cross of Serbia. International Journal of Contemporary Security Studies, 1(1), 99-124. https://doi.org/10.18485/fb_ijcss.2025.1.1.8

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