Mikael Frisell: "Indians must be ready for three years of hardship – it's time to get serious"
It's no ordinary Tuesday at the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency. Meeting Mikael Frisell, a readiness director with over two decades 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 need to brace ourselves for a prolonged period of hardship – up to three years – and it starts right at home, in your kitchen cupboard.
"This isn't about creating panic, it's about waking us up from a slumber. We are living in a new era," says Mikael Frisell, leaning forward across the meeting table.
Recent reports from around the world, with rising tensions in the Baltic Sea and the war in Ukraine entering its third year, have prompted the agency to sharpen its tone. Alongside the Swedish Armed Forces, they are now issuing a joint call: the Swedish people must be able to manage on their own for at least a week – but really, it's about thinking long-term.
"Forget two days – now it's about three years"
We used to talk about 72 hours. But according to Mikael Frisell, that's no longer enough. He points to fresh intelligence analyses circulating in high security circles: a modern war is drawn out, gruelling, and impacts the entire society.
- Water and food: At least two weeks' worth of dry goods and drinks, but ideally, you should gradually build up a supply that lasts several months.
- Heating and electricity: Have alternative solutions – camping stoves, kerosene lamps, batteries, and perhaps a wood-burning stove if you have the means.
- Medicine and hygiene: Make sure you have an extra supply of your prescription medications, plus a well-stocked first-aid kit.
- Information and communication: A battery-powered radio (for AM/FM bands) is worth its weight in gold when the network goes down.
- Safety for children and the elderly: Talk with your family, practice 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 at the shop, just toss an extra packet of oats and a couple of water cans into your cart," says Mikael Frisell with a wry smile.
Neighbourhood cooperation will be key
One thing that strikes me as I listen to him is that society's resilience fundamentally comes down to relationships. Mikael Frisell explains that the agency is currently working to support housing societies and resident welfare associations in creating their own emergency plans.
"We can't be everywhere instantly. It's the neighbour who will notice if you need help, or you who realises the elderly person on the third floor hasn't turned on a light in two days. That's where our staying power is built."
Outside on the street, I meet some residents who have already started thinking along these lines. "I bought a water container this weekend, and a wind-up radio. It feels a bit unreal, but at the same time, it's good to be prepared," says a young mother in her thirties. An older man walking his dog remembers the days of the Cold War: "Back then, everyone had bomb 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 our way. Being prepared isn't about being scared – it's about being strong."
Mikael Frisell stands up and thanks me for the talk. 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 the government agency level and in people's kitchens.
For those who want to know more: The Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency has updated its website 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."