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Crisis Management Days gathered a large number of experts in Opatija this year, all focused in their scientific or professional work on various aspects of global crises—from armed conflicts and natural disasters to climate change.

Around 250 attendees filled the large congress hall of the Ambasador Hotel in Opatija, where on Tuesday the Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Croatia and Minister of the Interior, Dr. Davor Božinović, officially opened the 18th International Crisis Management Days Conference.

“It is a great pleasure to speak at this international conference. Today, we are witnessing numerous crises that do not affect only individual countries, but have global consequences—especially when it comes to the effects of climate change. Like the rest of the world, Croatia faces the consequences of these changes, from earthquakes and the global pandemic to fires and other disasters. That is why conferences like this are an excellent opportunity to exchange experiences and share best practices—on how to prevent and respond to crisis situations,” Minister Božinović stated.

He also emphasized the importance of the civil protection system and announced a series of activities planned in this area for the year.
“One of the key activities is education—not only in theory but also through practice. Strong cooperation is needed across all levels: cities, universities, and of course, the Ministry of the Interior, which, as the competent authority, continues to build capacity and guide us toward new methodologies in the field of crisis management,” he added.

“It is a great honor and pleasure to welcome all participants on behalf of the City of Velika Gorica at the opening of this conference on crisis management, organized by our University of Applied Sciences Velika Gorica—an institution recognized for its commitment to educating professionals in this crucial field,” said Mayor Krešimir Ačkar.
“We live in a time when crises are no longer exceptions but realities we must learn to manage—systematically, responsibly, and professionally. The COVID-19 pandemic, the devastating Petrinja earthquake, frequent floods and storms, and an increasingly unstable global security situation have all reminded us of the importance of a systematic, science-based approach to crisis management.
That is why conferences like this are invaluable. They bring together experts, scientists, and practitioners who contribute through joint efforts to building a more resilient and secure society. Velika Gorica is proud to host a higher education institution that trains professionals ready for future challenges and actively contributes to national and international knowledge exchange in this key area.
I wish you productive work, inspiring discussions, and new knowledge that will strengthen our ability to anticipate, prevent, and respond effectively to crises,” he said, congratulating the University on yet another successfully organized international conference and expressing support for its continued work.

Dr. Tamara Čendo Metzinger, Dean of the University, addressed the audience on behalf of the hosts during the official opening and emphasized:

“For 18 years, we have strived to contribute to national and global security. The Crisis Management Days conference is not only about scientific and professional contributions but also sends important messages to students, citizens, and the wider public about the importance of crisis management in today’s security landscape. In addition to its scientific impact, this conference complements our educational efforts by gathering leading experts and scholars who share knowledge, experience, and best practices. After 18 years of tradition, we can proudly say that all previous conferences have significantly contributed to improving crisis management systems—both in professional training and by opening new scientific and practical discussions.”

Vice Dean for Science, Prof. Dr. Sanja Kalambura, addressed the audience on behalf of the conference’s Scientific Committee:

“With this year’s theme, Crisis Management for a Sustainable Future, we did not choose ‘trending’ topics, but those that affect us personally—issues that touch lives, nature, communities, and leave consequences if not addressed.
This year’s sessions are dedicated to climate and global change, European and international security, and other current challenges our societies face. A special segment is devoted to media and its social role in times of crisis, including a dedicated panel. In uncertain times, science must not remain silent. This conference proves that, year after year. To paraphrase the great English philosopher and statesman Francis Bacon: knowledge is power—but also responsibility.
I thank all those who invested their knowledge, time, and enthusiasm into this conference, and all of you here today—thank you for believing in the power of collective action.”

The opening ceremony was attended by many distinguished guests, including MP Ante Sanader, Dr. Damir Trut, Director of the Civil Protection Directorate, Neven Karas, Deputy Mayor of Velika Gorica, and Dr. Bruno Cvetković, President of the World Organization for Environment and Health, who addressed the conference on behalf of the many supporting partners.

Other attendees included Stipe Masnić, representative of the European Commission, Prof. Dr. Vlatko Cvrtila, a security expert, and numerous representatives of academia—deans, vice-deans, institutional directors, company executives, and professors and students, including about 50 students and faculty members from eight European countries.

On behalf of the University, Deputy Prime Minister Davor Božinović and Mayor Krešimir Ačkar were presented with a copy of the monograph “1991”, by renowned writer and photographer Zoran Filipović, author of 23 books and recipient of numerous awards, including the Strossmayer Award from the Croatian Academy of Sciences and Arts.

The musical guests at the conference were Klapa Baladur, who performed the national anthem, Serenade to Opatija by the timeless singer Ivo Robić, and two beautiful original songs, Life and I Won’t Let You Go, as a warm welcome to guests in this Adriatic gem.

Photo: David Jolić