Briefing
The Workers’ Samaritan Federation Germany (ASB) sharply criticised the state of disaster preparedness in Germany on 5 November 2026 and called for specific improvements. In a press statement and discussions with the media, ASB federal chair Knut Fleckenstein cited shortcomings in equipment, staffing and material reserves. As a specific example, the ASB points out that there are currently two Mobile care modules 5.000 (MBM 5,000) are being implemented; this capacity is not sufficient to reliably support large-scale evacuations and longer-term accommodation. The Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance (BBK) confirms that MBM 5,000 is planned as largely self-sufficient accommodation and care facilities, and that two modules are currently being implemented or procured.
The ASB is calling for long-term, stable funding for equipment, the replacement of outdated vehicles and a clearer division of responsibilities between the federal government, the Länder and local authorities. The organisation also warns that staffing shortages and inadequate material reserves are creating gaps in provision. According to the ASB, several statements by aid organisations suggest that significant risks to operational readiness will remain without additional funding.
Another key demand is equal legal status for volunteers: Fleckenstein wants volunteers in recognised aid organisations to receive better protection under employment and operational law, similar to the status of volunteer firefighters or the Federal Agency for Technical Relief. The ASB criticises the fact that volunteers have so far often depended on employers granting them leave, which hampers rapid mobilisation in a crisis.
Political decisions are still pending. According to media reports, the Federal Ministry of the Interior is considering changes to emergency accommodation; no specific decisions on expanding the care modules, staffing arrangements or additional budget funding had been published by 5 November 2026. The debate therefore brings together questions of funding and responsibility, as well as the involvement of recognised aid organisations in planning and procurement processes.
Editor: Mira Cadena (Article created with AI assistance).