Critical Messaging Association Highlights Resilient Communications at 2026 Bergamo Annual Event

BERGAMO, ITALY | October 16, 2026

International experts and industry leaders examine independent networks, public warning systems and the future of critical messaging.

The Critical Messaging Association (CMA) convened members and guest experts in Bergamo, Italy, October 7- 9, for CMAmilano26, its annual gathering focused on strengthening critical communications, public safety and resilience.

Across the program, speakers emphasized the importance of dependable, independent communications infrastructure to support urgent alerts when mobile, internet or power networks are disrupted. CMA Chairman Dietmar Gollnick addressed the value of independent communication paths, while Jim Nelson examined the balance between cloud-based solutions and dedicated critical messaging networks.

Public warning and preparedness were central themes. Natalie Hartmann of Germany’s Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance (BBK) discussed multi-channel warning strategies and national preparedness. Hans Petter Naper of the Norwegian Communications Authority (Nkom) shared their experience with Cell Broadcast and approaches to public warning.

Industry presentations illustrated the breadth of critical messaging applications. Luka Saladin of Swissphone Group explored cybersecurity, encryption and the industry’s evolving security requirements. Eloise Sheppard discussed on-site critical messaging solutions Call Systems Technology Ltd offers across industries. Simon Fid-ler of Scope highlighted paging-based safety applications, and representatives of national network operators in Germany and France shared infrastructure and market developments. In all three European countries, there have been a number of innovations, and evidence that demand for presented services has increased signifi-cantly, particularly in 2026.

Sara Isoardo from Milan-based Radio Activity spoke about secure radio communications for the fire service and public transport and introduced a foreign system integration partner. These implementations meet users’ de-mand for independent communication solutions.

Jenna Richardson of American Messaging Services presented Page Connect Dispatch, highlighting the develop-ment efforts of dispatching capabilities to compliment critical messaging services. The offer has been very well received.

The association also considered how to expand the visibility and reach of its work. Jenna Richardson presented marketing initiatives including CMA’s multilingual newsletter, trade event displays and a new brochure to support member engagement and awareness.

The event was supported by Platinum Sponsor Prism IPX, Gold Sponsor American Messaging, Silver Sponsor Call Systems Technology Ltd and Bronze Sponsor e*Message WIS GmbH. Hosted in Lombardy, the program also provided opportunities for professional exchange, networking and visits to Bergamo’s historic Città Alta.

>> Download PDF version of CMA’s convent in Bergamo 2026 (PDF)

---

About the Critical Messaging Association
The Critical Messaging Association (CMA) brings together organizations and experts from three continents working to advance dependable critical messaging and communications solutions across industries and international markets. Learn more at www.critmsg.org.

Press Contact:
Dr. Dietmar Gollnick – Chairman of Critical Messaging Association (CMA)
Email: tell.us@critmsg.org

---