Knowledge network helping in the fight against crime and terrorism
Security research and innovation (R&I) in the EU is highly fragmented, posing challenges in the fight against crime and terrorism (FCT). To address these challenges, the ENACT(opens in new window) project is developing a more coordinated and efficient approach to security R&I by identifying and filling gaps in capabilities, technologies and stakeholder engagement. ENACT’s goal is to further the uptake of cutting-edge security solutions and improve security practices in the EU. It also aims to support decision-makers in the FCT R&I ecosystem by providing expert-led research and fostering collaboration among relevant actors. “Ultimately, ENACT seeks to bridge the disconnection between research outcomes and real-world applications, ensuring that R&I delivers measurable value to end users, policymakers and the broader security ecosystem,” explains André Alegria, R&I Manager of the Polícia Judiciária, Portugal’s national criminal investigation police agency operating under the Ministry of Justice, coordinator of the ENACT project.
Mapping out a path to greater security
To make its goal a reality, ENACT has established a structured knowledge network that connects internal knowledge observatories and external stakeholders, thus enabling seamless collaboration and the continuous exchange of actionable insights. Since its launch in September 2023, it has delivered an evolving FCT Stakeholder Map and Knowledge Base(opens in new window) currently listing over 1 000 stakeholders across 52 countries and consolidating data from more than 1 100 observations from a broad variety of sources. It has also produced maps outlining FCT capabilities(opens in new window), technologies(opens in new window), market trends(opens in new window), and ethical, legal and societal considerations(opens in new window), summarising the main trends in these domains. ENACT has also published several reports(opens in new window) focused on security research developments and market overviews. The project ended its first year by holding an event(opens in new window) to showcase its results and highlight the opportunities for collaboration with FCT projects and stakeholders. The event was attended by more than 120 participants from various organisations and provided excellent representation from across the FCT community. The project will continue to release custom-made reports on key issues and update its maps twice a year to showcase the latest trends. It will also establish collaborations to promote the adoption of innovative security solutions across the FCT ecosystem. “ENACT will leave a lasting impact on the EU’s ability to combat crime and terrorism,” concludes Alegria. If you are interested in having your project featured as a ‘Project of the Month’ in an upcoming issue, please send us an email to editorial@cordis.europa.eu and tell us why!