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On Monday, Sweden began distributing copies of a 32-page booklet advising citizens on how to prepare for war and other crises. The booklet, titled “If Crisis or War Comes”, is available in multiple languages, including English, and offers practical advice on various aspects of survival and resilience. This move reflects a growing sense of urgency in Nordic countries, as they work to prepare their populations for potential Russian aggression and other security challenges.

► Check Full Text of The booklet, titled “If Crisis or War Comes” Here!

Sweden issues pamphlet telling citizens what to do if Russia attacks

A Comprehensive Guide to Crisis Preparedness

The booklet provides detailed instructions for citizens to navigate emergencies, including:

Warning Systems: Understanding air raid sirens and emergency broadcasts.

Shelter Guidance: How to seek safe spaces during air raids or other attacks.

Psychological and Digital Security: Tips for maintaining mental resilience and safeguarding against cyberattacks or disinformation campaigns.

In its prologue, the booklet sets a sobering tone:

“We live in uncertain times. Armed conflicts are currently being waged in our corner of the world. Terrorism, cyberattacks, and disinformation campaigns are being used to undermine and influence us.”

The guide also emphasizes community preparedness, encouraging Swedes to join volunteer defense organizations, learn emergency CPR, donate blood, or work with neighbors to strengthen local resilience.

Call for National Unity and Responsibility

The booklet underscores the critical role of collective action in safeguarding Sweden’s democracy and independence:

“To resist these threats, we must stand united. If Sweden is attacked, everyone must do their part to defend Sweden’s independence — and our democracy. We build resilience every day. You are part of Sweden’s overall emergency preparedness.”

Sweden on Monday started to distribute copies of a booklet advising its citizens how to prepare for war

A Regional Trend of Preparedness

Sweden is not alone in its efforts. Neighboring Nordic countries have taken similar steps to prepare their populations for potential crises:

• Norway: Citizens have received “emergency preparedness” pamphlets advising them on actions to take during wartime scenarios. Norwegian media has emphasized that "in the worst case," acts of war could affect the country.
• Finland: The Finnish government has released a digital guide for managing crises, reinforcing its long-standing policy of readiness for war. Finland's approach reflects a culture of preparedness deeply rooted in its history of conflict with Russia.

Geopolitical Concerns and Rising Defense Spending

The decision to distribute the booklet aligns with heightened tensions in the Baltic Sea region. Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson recently highlighted Russia as the principal threat to Sweden and the NATO alliance. In an interview with POLITICO, Jonson warned, “The risk of a Russian attack on the country cannot be excluded.”

Particular attention has been drawn to the strategically significant island of Gotland. Micael Bydén, Sweden’s former defense chief, expressed concerns in May, stating:

"I am sure that Putin even has both eyes on Gotland. Putin's goal is to gain control of the Baltic Sea."

Sweden is responding to these threats with substantial increases in defense spending, raising its military budget to 2.4% of GDP in 2024. This investment is part of a broader strategy to modernize Sweden’s defense capabilities and strengthen its integration into NATO, following its formal membership in the alliance earlier this year.

If Crisis or War Comes

Civilian Engagement as a Pillar of National Defense

Sweden’s approach reflects a growing recognition of the importance of civilian engagement in modern warfare, which increasingly involves hybrid threats like cyberattacks, misinformation, and economic sabotage. By equipping its citizens with practical knowledge and fostering a culture of preparedness, Sweden aims to build societal resilience that complements its military readiness.

The booklet’s focus on psychological and digital security is particularly timely, given the prevalence of disinformation campaigns targeting democracies. Citizens are encouraged to critically evaluate news sources and avoid spreading misinformation, a crucial line of defense in information warfare.

A Nordic Commitment to Peace and Stability

While the distribution of the booklet may raise concerns about escalating tensions, Sweden and its Nordic neighbors view these measures as essential to ensuring peace and stability in the region. By fostering awareness and preparedness among their populations, they aim to deter potential aggression and strengthen their collective security framework.

Conclusion: A Proactive Stance in Uncertain Times

Sweden’s decision to distribute the “If Crisis or War Comes” booklet represents a proactive effort to prepare its population for potential threats, reinforcing the principle that national defense begins with informed and resilient citizens.

As Sweden and other Nordic nations adapt to an evolving security environment, their emphasis on public preparedness serves as a reminder that peace is not guaranteed—it must be safeguarded through vigilance, unity, and action. This initiative underscores the strength of democracies that empower their citizens to be active participants in national resilience, standing as a bulwark against the uncertainties of modern conflict.

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