Preparing for Extreme Risk: Building a Resilient Society

Summary

The UK must move away from a risk management strategy which prepares for individual risk scenarios in isolation and often ignores or fails to appreciate the interconnected nature of our society. No two risk scenarios will play out in the same way and many emergencies will produce cascading effects that are capable of major disruption as they rip through society. The UK’s risk management system must adapt to ensure that we are prepared for the evolving extreme and systemic risks on the horizon. It must not just anticipate risks but prepare for and respond to them effectively, bridging the gap between analysis and operational capability to ensure the safety and security of the population. Much of the Government’s time and attention is focused on responding to crises and emergencies, from flooding to terrorist attacks. We must place a premium on possessing the competence and capacity to manage these crises.