The growing threat posed by lone actors, online radicalisation, chemical and biological hazards, and the role of prisons in preventing terrorism were among the key issues discussed at the European Conference on Security and Protection in Public Spaces, held in Nicosia within the framework of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
Experts from across Europe, security officials, academics, and representatives of public institutions examined the evolving threats facing open public spaces, as well as the policies and tools required to enhance their protection and resilience.
Rise in Lone-Actor Attacks
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Lara Raggi, an expert on radicalisation and lone-actor terrorism, noted that attacks carried out by so-called ‘lone actors’ represent one of the most significant security challenges facing European societies today.
As she explained, these individuals are not necessarily linked to organised terrorist groups, making them particularly difficult to identify and monitor. They often use simple means and everyday objects, while drawing inspiration from a wide range of ideologies disseminated primarily through online platforms.
According to Raggi, public spaces remain attractive targets due to their open and accessible nature, underscoring the need for constant vigilance and stronger prevention mechanisms.
Warnings Over Chemical and Biological Threats
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Maksymilian Stela, a specialist in Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) threats, stressed that European countries must prepare for an increasingly complex risk environment that includes sabotage, the malicious use of hazardous substances, and attacks against critical infrastructure.
He noted that technological advances and easier access to information are creating new challenges for security authorities, making it essential to develop advanced early-warning systems, specialised training programmes, and stronger cross-border cooperation.
Stela also emphasised that prevention remains the most effective tool in addressing such risks, as responding to an incident after it occurs is significantly more difficult and costly.
The Challenge for Security Authorities
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Alkis Kakoulis, Head of the Operations Department of the Cyprus Police, highlighted that protecting public spaces has become an increasingly complex mission for law enforcement agencies.
According to Kakoulis, security services are now required to plan and prepare for a broad spectrum of scenarios, ranging from terrorist attacks and violent incidents to emerging forms of hybrid threats.
He stressed that security cannot be achieved at the expense of citizens’ freedoms and everyday life, making it essential to strike a balance between effective protection measures and preserving the open character of public spaces.
The Role of Prisons in Preventing Radicalisation
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Pedro Liberado, an expert on violent extremism and organised crime, focused on the importance of correctional institutions as a critical element in preventing terrorism.
He pointed out that a significant number of individuals involved in terrorist activities in Europe had previously spent time in prison, highlighting the dual role that correctional facilities can play-as environments where radicalisation may deepen, or as spaces for prevention and rehabilitation.
According to Liberado, close cooperation between intelligence services, prison authorities, and social reintegration organisations is essential to identify risks at an early stage and reduce the likelihood of violent radicalisation.
Zenonas Tziarras: Regional Instability Directly Affects European Security
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In his keynote address, Dr Zenonas Tziarras, Lecturer at the University of Cyprus, analysed the rapidly changing geopolitical landscape of the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East, stressing that developments in the region have direct implications for European security.
He explained that conflicts, geopolitical realignments, migration pressures, energy challenges, and hybrid threats are creating an environment of heightened uncertainty that requires new approaches to security management.
Dr Tziarras underlined that the concept of security can no longer be confined to military threats alone, but is increasingly linked to the resilience of societies, institutions, and public infrastructure.
Municipality of Nicosia: Public Spaces Are at the Heart of Democratic Life
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In remarks delivered by Constantinos Yiangou, Deputy Mayor of Agios Dometios, on behalf of Nicosia Mayor Charalambos Prountzos, it was emphasised that public spaces are not merely physical meeting points but the very heart of democratic life, social interaction, and cultural expression.
As noted, squares, pedestrian streets, parks, event venues, and gathering places are environments where fundamental rights are exercised, social bonds are formed, and a sense of community is strengthened. For this reason, their protection has become increasingly important at a time when threats are becoming more complex and unpredictable.
Particular reference was made to the challenges facing European cities today, ranging from violent extremism and terrorism to hybrid threats, cyberattacks, and chemical or biological risks. Local authorities, it was stressed, are often on the front line of managing these risks, as they are the institutions closest to citizens and are frequently the first to respond during emergencies.
The address also highlighted the need for a multi-layered approach to security that combines urban planning, the use of new technologies, citizen education, and close cooperation among local authorities, police services, government agencies, universities, and European organisations.
As noted, the objective is not to create ‘fortified cities’ but to maintain public spaces that remain open, functional, and welcoming while ensuring a high level of safety and protection.
Commissioner for the Citizen: Security Begins with Democracy and Social Cohesion
In remarks delivered by Eleonora Papadimitriou Head of the Citizens’ Office on behalf of the Citizens’ Commissioner Panayiotis Palates, it was stressed that security cannot be limited solely to surveillance measures, policing, or operational preparedness, but is intrinsically linked to democracy, citizen participation, and social cohesion.
It was noted that modern societies face multiple challenges, including geopolitical conflicts, disinformation, the spread of extremist ideologies, social inequalities, and growing distrust of institutions. These factors can act as catalysts for radicalisation and social polarisation, directly affecting societal security.
Particular emphasis was placed on the need to strengthen active citizen participation in public life. Developing critical thinking, promoting democratic education, fostering a culture of dialogue, and encouraging tolerance were highlighted as key preventive tools against extremism and violence.
At the same time, it was underlined that protecting public spaces requires societies that trust their institutions and citizens who feel they play an active role in shaping the decisions that affect their lives.
As stressed during the conference, building resilient societies is not solely the responsibility of security authorities but a collective effort requiring cooperation among governments, local authorities, educational institutions, civil society organisations, and citizens themselves.