As tensions with Russia escalate, Germany is stepping up its civil defense measures by converting public buildings, including metro stations, into bomb shelters. The Federal Office for Civil Protection is leading the effort to address the nation’s shortage of shelter space.
With only 579 public shelters available—enough for just 500,000 people—Germany is scrambling to repurpose existing structures to protect its population of 84.4 million. Officials are also developing a mobile app to help citizens locate nearby shelters during emergencies.
The initiative marks a reversal of Germany’s 2007 decision to decommission much of its bunker network, a move that seemed reasonable at the time. However, Russian aggression in Ukraine and President Vladimir Putin’s threats against NATO-aligned nations have sparked a renewed focus on civil defense.
Authorities are encouraging Germans to set up personal shelters in their homes, such as reinforced basements. Ralph Tiesler, head of the Federal Office for Civil Protection, has warned that building new bunkers would take decades, necessitating quicker solutions.
Opposition lawmakers, including CDU MP Andrea Lindholz, have criticized the government’s lack of urgency. “We must be prepared to protect the public in the event of an emergency,” Lindholz said, pointing to Poland’s proactive measures, including a mandate for shelter access in all new construction by 2026.
Germany’s preparations reflect broader European concerns about security as tensions with Russia show no signs of easing.
