EU funded project POP-ART helps protect public spaces through advanced technology

Large public gatherings, such as festivals, concerts, or major sporting events, attract thousands of people. Participant of those events expect not only an enjoyable experience, but also that they are secure.

Yet the challenges are growing from threats such as terrorism, the malicious use of drones and sudden outbreaks of violence. Police and security teams need smarter tools to spot danger fast and act immediately. That's where the EU funded project Protection of Public spaces by means of an Advances Security Platform (POP-ART) plays a significant role. It introduces high-tech solutions on how to spot and manage these threats. By pulling together live feeds from closed-circuit television, bodycams, drones, audio input, social media sentiment, and geospatial data, it uses AI-powered analysis to detect risks like violent behaviour, suspicious drones, or other anomalies before they escalate. It doesn't just flag dangers, it also gives officers clear and real-time guidance on what to do next.

With privacy built in from the start, POP-ART strictly follows General Data Protection Regulation and Spanish laws. The footage is secured and used only when necessary. It is never stored longer than needed, and officers are always in full control of the data.

In collaboration with Spanish National Police (Policía Nacional), POP-ART was tested at some of Spain's biggest events, from a high-profile UN conference in Seville, La Liga football match in Madrid, or a large-scale drill at the National Police Academy involving over 100 officers. Deployed from mobile command vans on-site and central control hubs, the system combines aerial surveillance by drone pilots, real-time communications support, and rapid-response units on standby. This ensures officers stay one step ahead, whether coordinating remotely or at the heart of the action.

The CERIDES at European University Cyprus, a core project partner, contributes scientific expertise in risk modelling and decision-support, while the Spanish National Police provides real-world validation of the system.

Building on EU-funded research, the project provides a ready-to-use tool that supports law enforcement in responding to threats more effectively. By combining technology, and strong ethical safeguards, POP-ART serves as a model for responsible security practices that align with broader EU strategies for counter-terrorism and urban safety.

Project Information

Duration: June 2023 - December 2025

Budget: EUR 1 030 320 (corresponds to 90% of the total cost of the action)

Countries: Spain, Cyprus, Portugal

EU Fund: Internal Security Fund

Policy area: Strengthening Member States' capacity to prevent and combat crime

Project information: POP-ART project

Details