I527-290 ESRIF Final Report (WEB).indd - European Commission

4.2.2 Exploiting knowledge synergies
ESRIF believes that the security domain could derive signifi cant benefi t from a systematic exploitation of research results
from other domains. Therefore, adequate mechanisms should be put in place to assist in the technology watch of other
domains, and future security research programmes should promote the adaptation of existing solutions to security specifi c
requirements. At the same time, interaction between ESRIA and strategic research agendas in other areas such as the defence
sector should also be addressed.
Cross-fertilisation is required not only at the level of research and related application domains, however. Investments in security
often bring other advantages such as better visibility on internal operational processes or more effi cient logistic chains. As such,
investment in security becomes an investment in multi-purpose solutions. ESRIF believes it would be benefi cial to encourage
research initiatives that would foster this positive interaction with other operational security functions and tasks.
4.2.3 Standards, Validation and Certifi cation
Standards, validation and certifi cation processes have multiple roles: they facilitate interoperability of equipment, products, processes,
and allow substitution of equipment. In Europe’s fragmented security market, they can contribute to building more harmonisation
to improve our region’s position on the world market. Thus, ESRIF strongly supports all eff orts to identify necessary new standards
and their development. ESRIF has also analysed the concept of a “Security Label” that could support eff ective regulatory enforcement
and has identifi ed several sectors, whereby such processes could further enhance the confi dence of citizens in their security.
Capability-driven standardisation is an important enabler of innovation. It can make an important contribution to the
development of a sustainable industrial policy, unlock the potential of innovative markets and strengthen the position of
Europe’s economy through more effi cient capitalisation of its knowledge base. Capability driven standardisation is also a
priority in preventing identity theft and enabling interoperability at European borders.
For operators, competitiveness is a constant challenge and most of Europe’s security providers are fully exposed to the global
commercial environment. Europe needs to ensure that market conditions are such that competition is enabled not only in
a European context but also in terms of the global market. Limiting liability for security providers and operators in sectors
subject to security regulation could further enhance market conditions.
Detection, protection, and decontamination equipment, and medical countermeasures marketed for use against CBRN
incidents must be properly certifi ed. CBRN expert centres should be strengthened to validate manufacturers’ claims and
to oversee and standardise the calibration of equipment, shelf-life extensions and training. These expert centres could also
validate identifi cation of CBRN and hoax materials.
4.2.4 Developing common rules and procedures
ESRIF has identifi ed several practical ways for supporting transnational co-operation by implementing common rules and
procedures. For example, data policies for space situational awareness systems provide a common platform to fully exploit
its functionality. Common methods and best practices in the area of forensic analysis or even biometrics will greatly enhance
the eff ectiveness of detection and investigation. To enable citizens to operate in a virtual and digitalised world, development
of strong common methodologies for protecting ID credentials and prevent ID theft or fraud constitute a main domain of
research for the future. Adopting common criteria and approaches for security information management-and-response will
greatly assist in co-ordinating and implementing eff ective security measures.
To assess performance of new technologies, products, services and processes, generate trust in their performance, and allow
their benchmarking, it is important to strengthen systematic testing, evaluation and validation of security products, which is
underdeveloped today. Europe has strong testing and evaluation capabilities across its Member States and ESRIF believes that
pooling and networking these capabilities would be of merit for the security domain. Initiatives should be taken to evaluate best
practices in experimental facilities, e.g. fi eld labs by cooperation among end-users, industrial suppliers and research institutions.
From a market perspective, Europe’s legislative framework for the security market(s) needs to be harmonised. This is not a call for a
state-governed market, but for a common European framework regulation to foster a European market. The problem of transnational,
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