Based on literature review, interviews, surveys and extensive analysis of cases, the first outcome of the project is the knowledge generated about the contribution of the population to disaster management, as well as the identification of needs and requirements to enhance this contribution. This knowledge constituted the basis for a theoretical model of societal resilience. Informed by this knowledge, the main outcome of the project is the Catalogue of Solutions (CoS), a resource aimed at providing inspiration and guidance to authorities and emergency organizations. The CoS is embedded in the Knowledge Platform, which provides additional informational resources that enrich the catalogue, such as a list of informal solutions that emerged primarily from citizens’ initiatives. The project also explored the use of AI in the development of an emergency communication chatbot. A functional prototype was developed based on a comprehensive blueprint informed by extensive literature review and expert input.
These results were developed through the involvement of external stakeholders, especially members of the KI-CoP (Knowledge Innovation Community of Practice). This network of domain practitioners, researchers, community and technology providers was established to involve different stakeholders and gather their perspectives. In parallel, ENGAGE was actively involved in the Societal Resilience Cluster of projects from the DRS01 programme, participating in dissemination events, synergies activities and the development of a common policy brief.
The project used a set of exercises to validate the effectiveness and usability of solutions and other outcomes (e.g. usability and effectiveness of the Knowledge Platform). Four exercises were organised in Italy, Spain, Norway and Romania to include a variety of situations and contexts. Exercises were fictitious events or disasters delineated in collaboration with the local stakeholders (e.g. authorities, emergency organizations) using their extensive experience with similar events, representing a real test bed for the solutions identified in the project.
Dissemination activities and strategies aimed to enhance the reach of the project beyond the most commonly used channels (e.g social media and the ENGAGE website), strengthening and extending established links and networks (e.g with the DRS01 cluster projects), and ensuring reach to stakeholder groups. Beyond the project, ENGAGE and its results will be presented in identified practice- and research-focused events (e.g. European Civil Protection Forum), and various publications are planned. An exploitation strategy and plan was updated throughout the life of the project. Some partners continue to work together around the implementation of some solutions. Several members of the Consortium prepared joint proposals for national and European projects to promote the knowledge and results of ENGAGE. For instance, Horizon Europe projects SYNERGIES and RESILIAGE, developed partly as a follow-up of ENGAGE and involving some of its partners, started in 2023. Several results from ENGAGE are already planned to be used (some further developed) in these projects, especially the Knowledge Platform and Catalogue of Solutions.
