An analysis on the resilience of the European port network

Abstract

Resilience measures based on topological indices from graph theory are proposed to measure three essential aspects of the network resilience, namely connection extent measured by the extent of nodal connection, connection efficiency measured by the connection time aspect, and connection scale measured by service capacity aspect. Real liner service data are utilized to capture the intrinsic structure of the intra-Europe port network and measure its resilience against three potential “attack strategies”. We conclude that the intra-Europe network has a low resiliency towards potential port disruptions as it relies heavily on a few large ports, and is highly sensitive to the easiest human-led attack strategy or a regional natural disaster surrounding the German port region. Also, Piraeus port is found to hold a critical role in the network connection. Another interesting port is Bremerhaven which provides unique connections to many small ports in the network. This study has important political and managerial implications, especially for Europe facing a new era of high uncertainties and continuous turbulences.