Bridging Defense Studies and Disaster Risk Reduction: Comparative Perspectives from the Former Yugoslavia

In contemporary crises that threaten lives, infrastructure, and the functioning of states, armed forces have become central actors in disaster response. As their roles expand beyond traditional defense, the question arises: how prepared are they—educationally—for these responsibilities? Higher education plays a crucial role in disaster risk reduction (DRR) by developing knowledge, institutional capacity, and trained professionals. In particular, defense studies programs are essential for embedding DRR as a strategic competency. This paper examines the integration of DRR into defense education across the successor states of the former Yugoslavia. Drawing on the shared legacy of Total People’s Defense education in Yugoslavia, the research uses qualitative curriculum analysis to compare institutional frameworks and course content across selected universities and military academies. The analysis covered seven higher education institutions across five countries, providing comparative insight into how DRR principles are embedded in defense education. The findings suggest that credible defense education depends on the integration of DRR principles, positioning disaster preparedness and resilience as core competencies for defense graduates. The paper argues that aligning defense education with DRR is essential for building national resilience, enhancing civil–military cooperation, and preparing future professionals for complex 21st-century security environments.