Security and safety

Safety begins with knowledge and understanding - SINUS provides a solid foundation

Security is a fundamental human need – but also a highly complex concept. Our research shows: security is multifaceted and subjective. While some people fear crime or terrorism, others prioritize financial security or social protection.

To develop effective security strategies, a deep understanding of these different perspectives is essential. That’s where SINUS comes in.

SINUS offers scientifically grounded (social) research that provides orientation

In an increasingly interconnected and complex world (VUCA, BANI), security is a critical success factor for businesses, public institutions, and policymakers. Early risk detection and targeted measures require reliable data and robust analysis.

Our research provides the basis for evidence-based decisions and sustainable security strategies:

Scientifically backed studies on current security issues, including opinions, attitudes, and perspectives from the population
Target group-specific analyses
Concrete recommendations for strategy, communication, and prevention

SINUS security research: understanding what moves and matters to people

Our research approach combines in-depth qualitative analysis with quantitative validation (e.g., surveys). This yields differentiated and precise insights into how various target groups perceive and understand security.

We answer questions such as:

What are the dimensions of “security” and "safety"?
What influences people’s sense of security?
How do different target groups perceive security risks – and how do they deal with them?
What strategies are effective in sustainably enhancing security?

Security is a cross-cutting issue

Our studies cover a broad range of topics:

Our research on security - a multidimensional approach

Global security orientations

How do people in Germany view their future?
What worries and fears do they have?
How much confidence do you have in the ability of politicians to find solutions?
What objective and subjective differences exist between social groups?

Security communication and prevention

What is the state of crisis resilience in Austria?
How must campaigns be designed in order to be effective?
What measures are needed to strengthen the sense of security?

Economic, social and political security

What milieu-specific perspectives exist with regard to social change?
How are civil, internal vs. external security assessed?
How do inflation, job insecurity or social inequality affect the perception of security?
In which milieus are financial worries particularly pronounced?

Urban & rural living spaces and road safety

What is the subjective perception of safety in road traffic?
How is interaction in road traffic perceived?
What differences are there between urban and rural areas?

Youth

What security needs do young people have?
What threats to the future do Gen Z and Gen Alpha perceive?
How do young people deal with political crises?

Environment and sustainability

What relevance do environmental factors have for the perception of safety?
How are weather and climate-related risks perceived - and how are they dealt with?
What are milieu-typical approaches to climate (policy), nature and the environment?

Digital security and data protection

What is the level of awareness regarding data security?
What measures do consumers take to protect their data?
How can cyber security be communicated in order to strengthen trust?

Security research and strategy development with SINUS

Security is not just a matter of implementing measures – it’s also about the right communication. SINUS supports companies, public authorities, and NGOs in developing tailored security strategies – from target group analysis and campaign development to policy consulting.

Our work focuses on:

Scientifically grounded security analyses
Detailed target group and milieu analyses
Empirically based recommendations for action for policymakers, business, and society
Support in the development and implementation of security strategies

Are you interested in learning more about our security research or looking for a customized analysis on your topic? Get in touch – we’ll be happy to provide personal consultation.