Mikael Frisell: "Swedes Must Be Prepared for a Three-Year War – The Time for Seriousness Is Now"
It's no ordinary Tuesday at the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB). When I meet Mikael Frisell, Director of Preparedness with over twenty years of experience in crisis management, I can sense the mood is more serious than it has been in a long time. His message is crystal clear: we must prepare for a prolonged conflict – potentially lasting up to three years – and that preparation starts at home, in your own pantry.
– This isn't about creating panic, but about waking us up from our slumber. We live in a new era, says Mikael Frisell, leaning forward across the conference table.
Recent international reports, citing increased tension in the Baltic Sea and the war in Ukraine now entering its third year, have prompted the agency to toughen its rhetoric. Together with the Swedish 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 the real focus needs to be on long-term thinking.
"Forget 72 Hours – Now It's About Three Years"
We used to talk about being prepared for 72 hours. But according to Mikael Frisell, that's no longer sufficient. He points to recent intelligence assessments circulating in high-level security circles: a modern war is drawn out, grueling, and impacts the entire society.
- Water and Food: At least two weeks' worth of non-perishable food and drinking water, but ideally, you should gradually build up a supply that could last several months.
- Heating and Power: Have alternative solutions – a camping stove, kerosene lamp, batteries, and maybe a wood-burning stove if possible.
- Medicine and Hygiene: Make sure to 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 internet goes down.
- Safety for Children and the Elderly: Talk with your family, practice managing without electricity, and check in on your neighbors.
– It might seem overwhelming, but just start with one thing at a time. Next time you're at the store, toss an extra pack of oatmeal and a couple of jugs of water into your cart, says Mikael Frisell with a wry smile.
Neighborhood 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 homeowners' associations and neighborhood groups in creating their own preparedness plans.
– We can't be everywhere instantly. It's the neighbor who will see if you need help, or you who notices that the elderly person on the third floor hasn't turned on a light in two days. That's where true endurance is built.
Out on the street outside, I meet some Stockholm residents who have already started thinking differently. "I bought a water container last weekend, and a crank radio. It feels a bit surreal, but at the same time, it's good to be prepared," says a mother of young children in her thirties. An older man walking his dog remembers the Cold War era: "Back then, everyone had shelters and canned goods 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 conversation. He's heading 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 kitchens across the country.
For those who want to know more: The Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB) has updated its website with concrete checklists, and a national information campaign is expected this fall. Until then, Mikael Frisell's simple motto applies: "Start small, but start now."