CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE AND ITS ECONOMY

Abstract

Globalization, increasing independence and complexity, new technologies and climate change create approach to security based on the concept of critical infrastructure. Concept of critical infrastructure is based on the basic precondition – the State should (is obliged) to fulfill vital State functions (political, economic and social) for its inhabitants. The paper deals with the role and objectives of critical infrastructure, the consequences of disasters and the possibility of their quantification. Definitions of critical infrastructure are provided (different approaches – USA, EU, Slovak republic - Act Nr. 45/2011) and expressed types of failure significant for any critical infrastructure. There are classified key drivers relevant for critical infrastructure in the Slovak republic. Within the paper is described the example explaining the concept quantification of losses. The terms like average annual loss and exceedance probability are explained. At the end of the paper the forthcoming financial mechanism is mentioned. This mechanism is also connected to financing of the critical infrastructure of European Union (EU) member states. In the paper are expressed objectives concerning EU Internal Security Strategy. Under consideration is the Fund for interior security in EU for years 2014-2020 to support the Strategy. The financial conditions of the Fund are briefly described in the paper.