Sweden's private enterprises are integral to national defence in leading new plan

“Preparedness is not just bunkers and canned food. It’s about making sure society keeps functioning when the worst happens.”

Sweden is doubling down on its reputation for preparedness—this time with a focus on economic resilience and civil defence.

The article from Politico Europe highlights how Sweden, long admired for its robust civil contingency planning, is now integrating business continuity and economic security into its national preparedness strategy. This shift reflects growing concerns over geopolitical instability, supply chain vulnerabilities, and hybrid threats.

From Civil Defence to Economic Readiness

Sweden’s preparedness legacy dates back to the Cold War, when it maintained extensive bunkers, food stockpiles, and civil defense drills. In recent years, the country has revived these efforts in response to Russia’s aggression in Ukraine and rising global tensions. But now, economic resilience is taking center stage.

The Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB) is working closely with private companies to ensure that critical infrastructure, supply chains, and financial systems can withstand disruptions—from cyberattacks to natural disasters. This includes:

• Mapping supply chain dependencies
• Securing access to raw materials and energy

• Training businesses in crisis response and continuity planning

   

🏢 Business as a Pillar of National Security

The article emphasizes that Sweden sees private enterprise as integral to national defence. Companies are being asked to prepare for scenarios ranging from power outages to wartime logistics. Some firms are even participating in total defense exercises, simulating how they would operate under military or emergency conditions.

This approach reflects a broader European trend of blurring the lines between civilian and military preparedness, especially in sectors like telecommunications, transport, and food production.

🌍 Lessons for Other Nations

Sweden’s model offers a blueprint for countries seeking to build whole-of-society resilience. By combining traditional civil defence with modern economic foresight, it aims to protect not just lives—but livelihoods.

As one Swedish official put it, “Preparedness is not just bunkers and canned food. It’s about making sure society keeps functioning when the worst happens.”

Here’s a breakdown of the most relevant sources:

📰 Main Article

• Politico Europe Author: Elisabeth Braw Published: October 27, 2025 Read the full article here

   

🛡️ Government and Civil Defence Sources

• Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB) MSB is responsible for Sweden’s civil preparedness, including business continuity planning and public education campaigns. Agency overview and publications
• Sweden’s Total Defence Resolution 2025–2030 Details Sweden’s investment in civil and military defense, including SEK 37.5 billion for civil preparedness. 

• Government policy page

   

📈 Defense and Economic Strategy Commentary

• Nordic Times Coverage of Sweden’s defence spending and geopolitical positioning in relation to NATO and global threats. Article on defence spending and strategic alignment

📚 Expert Commentary

• Elisabeth Braw Senior fellow at the Atlantic Council and author of Goodbye Globalization, frequently cited for her work on resilience and hybrid threats. Atlantic Council profile