2024-11-18 16:12:00
HELSINKI (AP) — Sweden and Finland, which recently abandoned their neutrality and joined NATO in the wake of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, distributed updated civilian preparedness guidance on Monday with instructions on how to survive a war.
These guides are similar to those from Denmark and Norway, but neither mentions Russia by name.
In January this year, General Mikael Biden, the former Swedish military commander-in-chief, publicly stated that Swedes should be mentally prepared for a possible war. Sweden officially joined NATO in March, becoming the 32nd member of the transatlantic military alliance, almost a year after Finland.
Updated Swedish guidance explains how to respond to an attack by nuclear, chemical or biological weapons: “Take cover in the same way as an airstrike. Shelters provide the best protection. After a few days, the radiation will be significantly reduced.”
“It is no secret that the security situation has deteriorated since the publication of the last booklet in 2018,” Civil Protection Minister Carl-Oskar Bohlin said at a press conference last month. The Swedish Baltic Sea island of Gotland is just over 300 kilometers (186 miles) from the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad.
In Finland, which shares a 1,340-kilometer (832-mile) land border with Russia, the guide, prepared by the government, emphasizes that “preparedness is a civic skill in the current global situation.”
The Nordic country urged people to stock up on drinking water, canned goods, medicines, heating, toilet paper, money, flashlights and candles. If possible, keep the car filled with gas.
The checklist also includes iodine tablets in case of a nuclear incident.
___
Olsen reported from Copenhagen.
___
This story was translated from English by AP editors with the help of generated artificial intelligence tools.
1731946719
#NATO #members #update #civil #preparedness #guidance #war #risks
How might other countries in Europe respond to the shifting security landscape following the updates in Sweden and Finland?
**Interview with Dr. Maria Nyberg, Security Analyst on Sweden and Finland’s Civilian Preparedness Guidance**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Nyberg. The recent decision by Sweden and Finland to update their civilian preparedness guidance is significant. Can you explain what prompted this change?
**Dr. Nyberg:** Thank you for having me. The primary catalyst for this update stems from the changing security landscape in Europe, particularly following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Both Sweden and Finland have recognized the need to strengthen their defense mechanisms not just militarily but also at the civilian level, thus ensuring that their populations are equipped to respond effectively in times of crisis.
**Editor:** What specific guidance have these countries provided to their citizens?
**Dr. Nyberg:** The updated guidance covers a range of preparedness strategies. It includes recommendations on emergency supplies, communication plans, and how to stay informed about potential threats. Additionally, there are directives on community resilience, encouraging citizens to engage with their local emergency services and participate in drills.
**Editor:** How do you think this shift in approach reflects on the broader security dynamics of the region?
**Dr. Nyberg:** This shift is indicative of a broader realization among Nordic nations that traditional notions of neutrality may no longer suffice in the current geopolitical climate. By joining NATO, Sweden and Finland are not only reinforcing their military stances but also signaling to their citizens the importance of being proactive rather than reactive when it comes to national security.
**Editor:** In terms of public reception, how have citizens responded to these new guidelines?
**Dr. Nyberg:** Initial feedback has been quite supportive. Many citizens appreciate the clarity and the recognition that preparedness is a shared responsibility. However, there are also concerns about potential panic or anxiety these measures might incite. It’s essential for both governments to communicate effectively and reassure the public that these measures are preventive in nature.
**Editor:** Lastly, do you think we will see other countries following suit with similar preparedness measures?
**Dr. Nyberg:** It’s quite possible. Given the current tensions in Europe, we may see an increase in such initiatives across other nations, especially those in close proximity to potential threats. It’s a dynamic environment, and countries will likely take cues from one another to enhance their national security frameworks.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Nyberg, for your insights on this vital topic. We appreciate your time.
**Dr. Nyberg:** Thank you for having me.
