As tensions rise across Europe due to the war in Ukraine, the Nordic nations of Sweden, Finland, Norway, and Denmark are taking precautionary measures to prepare their citizens for potential war-like scenarios. In Sweden, a booklet titled “In case of crisis or war” was issued to millions of citizens, updating and expanding on previous versions due to the deteriorating security situation on the continent. The booklet underscores Sweden’s commitment to resist any attack by another country and never give up, a sentiment echoed by Civil Defense Minister Carl-Oskar Bohlin who has warned of the possibility of war in Sweden.
Following Sweden’s lead, Finland, which shares a border with Russia, also released its crisis preparedness guidance, emphasizing the need to be well-prepared for self-defense. Despite maintaining a neutrality status for decades, Finland joined NATO in 2023 and is keen on ensuring its citizens are prepared for any potential threats. Neighboring Norway, a founding member of NATO, distributed preparedness booklets urging its citizens to be ready to cope for up to a week in the event of war, crises, or extreme weather. The Norwegian government instructed citizens to stock up on essential items such as canned food, water, matches, candles, first aid kits, and iodine tablets to protect against radioactive iodine in case of nuclear accidents.
Denmark, another NATO member, also encouraged its citizens to have three-days’ worth of essential items stored in preparation for crisis situations. As Western leaders closely monitor Russia’s actions in Ukraine, they have made it clear that any attack on a NATO nation will trigger a united response from all 32 member states. These precautionary measures taken by the Nordic nations reflect a growing concern over the deteriorating security situation in Europe and the need to ensure the readiness of their populations in the face of potential threats.
The decision by Sweden and Finland to join NATO comes in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, prompting both nations to strengthen their defensive postures and align themselves with the Western military alliance. While Finland took a digital approach to distribute its crisis preparedness guidance, Norway and Denmark opted for physical booklets to reach their citizens. The updated guidance emphasizes the importance of being prepared for various scenarios, including long power or water outages, disruptions to banking or internet services, and potential nuclear accidents.
The Nordic nations’ efforts to ready their citizens for crisis situations highlight the evolving security landscape in Europe and the need for proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of the population. By distributing preparedness booklets and providing guidance on emergency scenarios, Sweden, Finland, Norway, and Denmark are taking steps to equip their citizens with the knowledge and resources needed to cope under challenging circumstances. As geopolitical tensions continue to escalate in the region, the Nordic nations are working to strengthen their defenses and ensure their populations are well-prepared for any eventuality that may arise.
