European nations are taking unprecedented steps to prepare their citizens for potential conflict as tensions rise amid the ongoing Ukraine crisis.
At a Glance
- Sweden is distributing 5.2 million pamphlets on war preparedness to households
- Finland has launched an online hub for crisis preparedness
- Norway and Denmark are also advising citizens on emergency readiness
- These actions come in response to growing concerns over potential military conflicts in Europe
- Countries are strengthening civil defense strategies and border security
Nordic Nations Lead the Way in Citizen Preparedness
In a move reminiscent of Cold War era preparedness, several European nations, particularly in the Nordic region, are taking significant steps to ready their populations for potential crises, including the possibility of war. Sweden, a country that has not been involved in armed conflict for over two centuries, is at the forefront of this initiative.
The Swedish government is distributing 5.2 million copies of a 32-page pamphlet titled “If Crisis or War Comes” to households across the country. This comprehensive guide, available in both Swedish and English with digital versions in multiple languages, outlines various threats such as military conflicts, natural disasters, cyberattacks, and terrorism.
“The security situation is serious, and we all need to strengthen our resilience to face various crises and ultimately war,” Mikael Frisell said.
Practical Advice for Citizens
The pamphlet provides practical tips for citizens, including advice on stocking up on non-perishable food and storing water. This proactive approach to citizen preparedness is not limited to Sweden. Finland, which shares a border with Russia, has launched an online hub for crisis preparedness, offering similar guidance to its citizens.
Norway is following suit, distributing millions of paper copies of a pamphlet that advises on handling extreme weather, war, and other threats. The Norwegian guide places a particular emphasis on practical supplies, including long-life food and iodine tablets. Denmark, too, is taking action by emailing citizens with advice on necessary supplies to endure crises for up to three days.
Shifting Security Landscape in Europe
These unprecedented preparedness measures come in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which has significantly altered the security landscape in Europe. Sweden and Finland, historically neutral countries, made the momentous decision to join NATO in 2022 following Russia’s aggressive actions.
“Swedes have to mentally prepare for war,” Sweden’s then army chief Micael Byden said.
This stark warning underscores the seriousness with which Nordic nations are approaching the current geopolitical situation. The public reaction to these measures has been mixed, with some citizens calling for mental preparation for war, further highlighting the gravity of the situation.
Enhancing Defense and Border Security
In addition to citizen preparedness, Nordic countries are taking concrete steps to enhance their defenses. Finland, for instance, is constructing a 200 km long, 10-foot-tall wall along its border with Russia. This physical barrier serves as a tangible representation of the heightened tensions in the region.
Germany, while not a Nordic country, has also developed a detailed plan for a potential conflict with Russia. This plan involves hosting NATO troops and preparing for national defense, further illustrating the widespread concern across Europe regarding the potential for escalation.
