Mikael Frisell: "Britons must be ready for a three-year war – the time for seriousness is now"
It's no ordinary Tuesday at the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency. Meeting Mikael Frisell, a preparedness director with over twenty years' experience in crisis management, it's clear the situation is more serious than it has been for a long time. His message is crystal clear: we must brace ourselves for a protracted war – lasting up to three years – and preparations start at home, in the kitchen cupboard.
– This isn't about creating panic, but about waking us from our slumber. We live in a new era, says Mikael Frisell, leaning forward across the meeting table.
Recent reports from around the world, with increased tension in the Baltic Sea and the war in Ukraine entering its third year, have prompted the agency to stiffen its tone. Alongside the Armed Forces, they are now issuing a joint call: the Swedish public must be able to cope on their own for at least a week – but really, it's about thinking long-term.
"Forget 72 hours – now it's three years"
Previously, we talked about 72 hours. But according to Mikael Frisell, that's no longer enough. He points to fresh intelligence assessments circulating in high security circles: a modern war is drawn out, exhausting, and affects the whole of society.
- Water and food: At least two weeks' worth of non-perishable food and drink, but ideally you should gradually build up a supply that lasts several months.
- Heating and electricity: Have alternative solutions – a camping stove, paraffin lamp, batteries, and perhaps a wood-burning stove if possible.
- Medicine and hygiene: Make sure you have extra supplies of your prescription medications, plus a substantial first-aid kit.
- Information and communication: A battery-powered radio (for AM/FM bands) is worth its weight in gold when the internet goes down.
- Security for children and the elderly: Talk with your family, practise managing without power, and check on your neighbours.
– It might sound overwhelming, but start with one thing at a time. Next time you're shopping, just throw in an extra packet of porridge oats and a couple of bottles of water, says Mikael Frisell with a wry smile.
Neighbourhood cooperation becomes key
One thing that strikes me as I listen to him is that society's resilience is fundamentally about relationships. Mikael Frisell explains that the agency is currently working to support housing associations and local community groups in creating their own emergency plans.
– We can't be everywhere instantly. It's the neighbour who sees if you need help, or you who notices the old person on the third floor hasn't put a light on for two days. That's where resilience is built.
Out on the street, I meet some Stockholmers who have already started thinking differently. "I bought a water container this weekend, and a wind-up radio. It feels a bit surreal, but at the same time, it's reassuring to be prepared," says a mother of young children in her thirties. An older man with a dog remembers the days of the Cold War: "Back then, everyone had air-raid shelters and tins in the basement. We've let that slide, but now it's time to dust off that knowledge."
What do you say to someone who thinks this is overblown?
– I understand that feeling. It's comforting to think the worst won't happen. But at the same time: the world around us has changed rapidly, and our job is to ensure Sweden stands firm no matter what comes. Being prepared isn't about being scared – it's about being strong.
Mikael Frisell stands up and thanks me for the conversation. He's off to a meeting with representatives from the food industry and the energy sector. The work to make Sweden more resilient is in full swing, both at agency level and out in people's kitchens.
For those who want to know more: The Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency has updated its websites with practical checklists, and a national information campaign is expected this autumn. Until then, Mikael Frisell's simple motto applies: "Start small, but start now."