Hybrid Threats from the Perspective of Municipalities: a Lost Battle

The aim of this research note is to analyse hybrid threats from the perspective of local authorities, principally municipalities, and to assess the extent to which they can withstand such threats. It emphasises the pivotal role municipalities play in preserving social cohesion and public trust. Short scenario-based examples illustrate typical hybrid threat vectors. From these vignettes, the note derives a set of key dimensions for countering hybrid threats at the local level. Finally, drawing notably on lessons from Ukraine since the onset of the Russian war of aggression in 2022, the note highlights three principal factors that can strengthen municipal resilience.