Preparation for Conflict in the Nordic Countries
In response to increasing geopolitical tensions, Nordic countries including Norway, Sweden, and Finland have begun disseminating informative booklets to their citizens. These guides provide advice for situations such as war or other emergencies. The initiative has been prompted by growing concerns over the worsening security situation, particularly Russia’s large-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Public Safety Measures
Starting this week, millions of Swedes will begin to receive booklets titled “If Crisis or War Comes”. This has been updated from a previous version released six years ago to reflect the current geopolitical climate. Similarly, Finland has published online advice on preparing for incidents and crises.
Additionally, Norwegian citizens have recently received a booklet encouraging them to prepare for a week of self-sufficiency in the event of extreme weather, war, or other threats. The Finnish digital booklet includes a detailed section on how the government and president would respond to an armed attack, emphasizing that the Finnish authorities are well prepared for self-defense.
Cost-Effective Measures
The governments of these countries have taken a practical approach to these measures. For instance, the Helsinki government decided to release their advice digitally rather than in print format to save costs and allow for easier updates. Norway, however, has sent out 2.2 million paper copies, one for each household in the country.
Recommended Supplies
The booklets recommend keeping a stock of long-lasting food items such as canned beans, energy bars, and pasta, as well as medicines, including iodine tablets in case of a nuclear accident. The first edition of “If War Comes” was produced during World War II and has been updated periodically during times of tension.
Changing Global Context
While Finland and Sweden were neutral states not long ago, their infrastructure and total defense system date back to the Cold War. As the global context shifts, the information provided to households must also reflect these changes. This is a measure taken to ensure public safety and preparedness in uncertain times.
