Crisis management is a period of intense pressure for public authorities: it tests the authorities’ ability to react, communicate and remain legitimate. During such times, marked by tight deadlines, the authorities require scientific support and innovative tools to inform public decision-making and optimise the operational and tactical crisis management. The preparation and feedback phases also require the contribution of science and innovation. Leveraging science and innovation for public action during crises requires strong collaboration between scientific researchers, policymakers, private companies at every level, from the field to the highest level of decision-making. The development of research projects requires a long-term relationship of trust and mutual understanding that extends the lifetime of a project. How can research and innovation be organised to benefit long-term crisis management?

Furthermore, research and innovation projects are too often ‘upstream’ – and sometimes considered ‘out of touch’ by end users. It is therefore important not to disappoint and demotivate practitioners involved in research and innovation by ensuring that they see the benefits.

The research and innovation projects often lack practical application and seem disconnected from reality. It is thus very important to involve final users in the process, ensuring them benefits and opportunities.

Finally, it is interesting to note that while innovation is often approached solely through the prism of technology, the scientific disciplines involved in crisis management are not limited to a technical approach but involve the mobilisation of the humanities and social sciences community.