Mikael Frisell: "Irish people must be ready for three years of 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 of experience in crisis management, it's clear the situation is more serious than it has been in a long time. His message is crystal clear: we must brace ourselves for a prolonged conflict – up to three years – and the preparations start at home, in your own kitchen press.
– This isn't about causing panic, but about waking us up from our slumber. We're living in a new era, says Mikael Frisell, leaning forward across the meeting table.
Recent reports from around the world, with increased tensions in the Baltic Sea and the war in Ukraine dragging into its third year, have prompted the agency to toughen its tone. Alongside the Swedish Armed Forces, they are now issuing a joint call: the public must be able to cope on their own for at least a week – but really, it's about thinking long-term.
"Forget two days – now it's three years"
In the past, we talked about 72 hours. But according to Mikael Frisell, that's no longer sufficient. He points to fresh intelligence assessments circulating in high security circles: a modern war is protracted, gruelling, and impacts the entire fabric of society.
- Water and food: At least two weeks' worth of non-perishable goods and drink, but ideally, you should gradually build up a supply that lasts several months.
- Heating and electricity: Have alternative solutions – a camping stove, a paraffin lamp, batteries, and perhaps a solid fuel stove if you have the means.
- Medication and hygiene: Make sure you have an extra supply of your prescription medicines, plus a well-stocked first-aid kit.
- Information and communication: A battery-powered radio (with AM/FM bands) is worth its weight in gold when the internet goes down.
- Support for children and the elderly: Talk to your family, practise managing without power, and check in on your neighbours.
– It might seem overwhelming, but start with one thing at a time. Next time you're doing the shopping, throw in an extra packet of porridge oats and a couple of containers of water, says Mikael Frisell with a wry smile.
Community spirit will be 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 residents' associations and local communities in developing their own emergency plans.
– We can't be everywhere at once. It's the neighbour who sees if you need help, or you who notices the elderly person on the third floor hasn't put their light on for two days. That's where real staying power is built.
Out on the street outside, I meet a few people who have already started thinking differently. "I bought a water container at the weekend, and a wind-up radio. It feels a bit surreal, but at the same time, it's good to be prepared," says a mother in her thirties. An older man walking his dog remembers the days of the Cold War: "Back then, everyone had air raid shelters and tins of food 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 over the top?
– 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 Ireland stands firm no matter what comes our way. Being prepared isn't about being afraid – it's about being resilient.
Mikael Frisell stands up and thanks me for the chat. He's off to a meeting with representatives from the food industry and the energy sector. The work to make the country more robust is in full swing, both at an official level and in people's kitchens.
For those who want to know more: The 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."