January/February 2025 - Baseline Knowledge Framework for National Expert Engagement

Desk Research

The desk research phase serves as the foundational step in understanding the landscape of CBRN critical infrastructure protection across the 19 Partner Countries. This includes a comprehensive review of available literature, previous CBRN CoE and non-CoE project outcomes, national policy documents, legislative frameworks, institutional mandates, and technical capabilities. The aim is to build an evidence-based baseline that informs both the strategic direction of P101 and the engagement with national stakeholders. This research also supports the identification of key actors, gaps, and opportunities for alignment with EU and international standards.

Questionnaires

To complement the desk research, structured questionnaires have been developed to capture direct input from national authorities and stakeholders. These questionnaires are designed to assess existing capacities, regulatory frameworks, threat perceptions, and practices related to the security and resilience of CBRN infrastructures. Three tailored sets focus respectively on cybersecurity, physical security, and legal frameworks, aligning with the three National Expert profiles. The collected responses will inform the national assessments and provide a standardized method for comparing needs and capabilities across the Partner Countries.

Terms of Reference (TOR) for National Experts

The Terms of Reference define the scope of work, responsibilities, and expected deliverables of the 57 National Experts—three per Partner Country—specializing in Security, Cybersecurity, and Legal domains. These TORs ensure consistent engagement across countries, enabling experts to contribute to assessments, support field missions, and facilitate national consultations. They are aligned with the objectives of the P101 project and structured to ensure each expert can effectively support data collection, gap analysis, and the development of national recommendations. The TORs also clarify reporting lines and coordination mechanisms with the P101 core team.