The CO-OPERATION project explores the experiences of employees in critical professions (CPs), such as healthcare, and police, in Slovenia and Austria as they navigate complex crises (e.g., COVID-19). The project aims to identify protective factors at the individual, micro, meso, and macro levels in crisis and operational situations. To achieve this, the project includes expert interviews with stakeholders within organizations as well as a prospective four time point longitudinal study among individuals in critical professions. The findings will inform future support measures and policies aimed at enhancing their resilience and well-being.

The CO-OPERATION project is a collaborative initiative between the University of Klagenfurt and the University of Ljubljana, led by Principal Investigators Univ.-Prof. Heather Foran and Univ. Prof. Dr. Janja Vuga Beršnak.

University of Klagenfurt, Austria
Univ.-Prof. Heather Foran
Ass.-Prof. Heidi Siller (on leave)
Dr. Janina Müller
Katharina Buß
Dr. Rita Helena Phillips
Dipl.Ing. Stefan Haan, B.Sc.B.Sc.

University of Ljubljana, Slovenia
Univ. Prof. Dr. Janja Vuga Beršnak
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bojana Lobe
Assist. Prof. Dr. Andreja Živoder
Assist. Prof. Dr. Miha Šlebir
Prof. Dr. Ljubica Jelušič
Assist. Prof. Dr. Jelena Juvan
Gašper Ferme

The qualitative expert interviews in Austria and Slovenia have been completed, providing valuable initial insights into the lived experiences of first responders. In Austria, the longitudinal study is progressing well: following the first assessment in December 2025, the second was completed in April 2026 with a retention rate of 70%. The third measurement point is currently underway and expected to conclude in July 2026. We are grateful for the continued commitment of the first responders who have participated in this research.

Important study materials will be shared here.