Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine and rising geopolitical tensions have sparked an increase in interest in survivalism in Spain.
Since Russia began its invasion of Ukraine in early 2022, the private construction of bunkers has surged by 200%, as reported by industry firms. This pattern is now extending throughout Europe, with Germany, France, and the Baltic nations leading the way in terms of preparation.
A lot of families are searching for secure bunkers. Euronews managed to get inside one designed to endure nuclear fallout, equipped with features such as decontamination showers, reinforced concrete and steel walls, along with armored doors. Its owner had it built out of concern over potential military confrontations in Europe.
The bunker was created by VIP Bunker, and its manager, Fernando Díaz, characterized it as a "high-security apartment capable of housing individuals for several months." It includes 1,000 liters of potable water along with multiple redundant power supply systems.
Nevertheless, with an average price tag of €150,000, these shelters are a luxury beyond the reach of most people.
As a result, certain individuals have established secure areas within their residences for keeping non-perishable provisions. In parallel, the European Union has encouraged people to assemble emergency packs sufficient for 72 hours of sustenance and has requested that authorities enhance collaboration between civil services and military forces.
Preparing for 'greater threats'
Leaders from Europe have highlighted the importance of readiness.
"We need to think big because the threats are greater," said European Commissioner for Crisis Management Hadja Lahbib.
Meanwhile Roxana Minzatu, Commissioner for Preparedness, added, "The pandemic showed that acting together, in solidarity, is crucial. It makes us stronger."
Lieutenant Colonel Manolo Cámara, who wrote the book "Prepárate" (Get Ready), has been teaching civil individuals about survival techniques for many years and has observed a change in this trend.
He mentioned that previously there was little concern, but with the potential war in Europe, people have begun to feel anxious, though this sentiment is significantly weaker in Spain compared to the remainder of the European Union.
In his classes across different Spanish cities, he imparts crucial abilities, as reported by Euronews.
"You need to have your backpack ready, know how to start a fire, find water, build a shelter, and navigate with a map. In a war, food, water, and medical support will be scarce. You need to know how to act."
For the lieutenant colonel, knowledge is key: "The most important thing in your backpack is what doesn't weigh — knowing how to use it. You need a family plan with meeting points and evacuation routes."
Ignacio Ortega, head of instruction at the Spanish School of Survival, agrees with the rise in interest, he said, "People from all walks of life come to us — not just from security fields, but entire families and independent professionals. Since the war in Ukraine, the profile has changed: before, they were nature lovers, now they are regular families scared of the future."
With around 2,000 students annually, Ortega emphasises the importance of prevention.
"The best survival is the one you avoid. Before any activity, assess the risks and prepare with resources and knowledge." He adds that urban crises are the most hostile.
"Most people will experience a survival situation in the city, without electricity or supplies, not in an idyllic forest."
Nuclear war on the horizon?
Tensions between Russia and NATO have popularised the term "nuclear war". Some experts speak of a paradigm shift, as the EU insists on stockpiling supplies in case of conflict.
France, Norway, Finland and Sweden are in the process of distributing war manuals, while Russia is mass-producing mobile nuclear shelters, highlighting the urgency for countries in the conflict's orbit.
In Spain, the demand for private bunkers surged after the Ukraine invasion.
The government is preparing a National Civil Protection Plan for "military risk," but there are only four public nuclear shelters in the country, mostly located in the capital: the residence of the Spanish Prime Minister, the Moncloa Palace, the Torrejón base, El Capricho park, and the Ébora Hotel (Toledo).
Subway tunnels might serve as refuges; however, they wouldn’t entirely shield against nuclear radiation.
Spain has approximately 400 private bunkers, placing it well behind nations such as France and Germany in terms of these structures.
Cámara muses: "Having a refuge at home can be challenging, but if you possess a secondary residence in the countryside or have friends in different areas, consider using them as alternatives."
The cost presents an obstacle—a standard bunker may go up to approximately €150,000. Firms such as VIP Bunker provide high-end versions surpassing €350,000, along with various more budget-friendly choices tailored to the buyer’s requirements.
A functional bunker needs to be at least 10 meters deep, featuring robust walls, along with systems for filtering air and water, and impact-resistant doors. For it to withstand nuclear blasts, it should include steel plating as well.
Due to the scarcity of public alternatives, numerous individuals are opting to get ready independently.
The experts consulted by Euronews think this tendency is expanding: "It’s not necessary to overdo it, but being prepared is advisable."
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