The word “terror” causes great fear with many people and leaves a bad taste in one’s mouth. Especially in regards to large public events with many visitors, the question arises: how safe are we actually? The events in Manchester at the Ariana Grande concert or the interruption of the festival “Rock am Ring” cause the impression, at first glance, as if no one would be safe anymore. But is that true? Should we avoid big events or even worse: cancel them?
Less Than Three Percent of Fatalities in Western Civilisation Occur Through Terror Attacks
The german organisation "Verband für Medien- und Veranstaltungstechnik (VPLT)" has been occupied with this question for quite some time. It works carefully with IGVW, Event Safety Alliance, with authorities, politics, and all stake holders in order to make events as safely as possible. Even if the reporting immediately following such terrible events suggests, less than three percent of deaths in Western civilisation are caused by terror attacks. That is why it is all the more important to view the objective situation rationally and calmly. This is also the approach of the VPLT, which most prominently offers neutral indications and informational material regarding event security. Fighting terror starts with reporting.
What is sure: it is an explicit goal of terrorism to cause lasting fear in the populations of the Western civilisation. Such panic can only be avoided when all the facts are well-researched and prepared – prominently via serious media and social networks. Hardly anyone realized that the attacks in Manchester had clearly taken place in public space, in other words before the first line of security from event organizers and outside the actual location.
Solidarity and Resistance: a Sign Against Terrorism
Terrorism can only succeed when the population feel uncertain due to the attacks and restrict themselves in their daily lives. However, reactions from the industry clearly show: fans, artist, organizers and technicians won’t be frightened. The charity concert from Ariane Grande with 50,000 peaceful fans is a clear sign of solidarity and the desire to stand together despite inhumane ideologies.
The professional association Verband für Medien- und Veranstaltungstechnik (VPLT) was also present at this year’s Prolight + Sound and is a major supporter of the conference program design with more than 20 presentations. In addition, visitors were also able to gather information on DEAplus and other educational institutions, certification within the industry, on EU projects as well as the VPLT.JOB.market.
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