Heightened state of alert
The Swedish Government may announce a heightened state of alert if, for example, war and armed conflicts break out in our proximity, or if the situation in the rest of the world seriously affects our country or threatens our security and independence. A heightened state of alert grants the government greater freedoms to act, as well as special decision-making powers.
Announcements regarding a heightened state of alert will be broadcast via radio and TV. The Swedish public broadcaster Sveriges Radio, channel P4, serves as the emergency channel and is tasked with quickly disseminating important information to the public in the event of crises and heightened states of alert.
You can find the frequency of your local P4 channel on the Teracom website (in Swedish)During a heightened state of alert, certain laws may come into effect in addition to those in place during peacetime. For example, the state can exercise eminent domain, seizing private property that is vital to national security. This could include things like buildings, transport and machinery. The state’s ability to take private property in the event war or threat of war is secured in peacetime to ensure rapid mobilisation. Mobilisation means that society's resources are pooled in the service of total defence.
The laws of war
The laws of war is another name for international humanitarian law (IHL). These are international rules serve to make war less inhumane and limit human suffering in armed conflicts.
So long as wars continue, these rules help make them less horrible. Those who break the laws of war can be penalised.
You can read more about what the laws of war mean on the Swedish Red Cross website (in Swedish)
A heightened state of alert also requires that municipalities and government agencies, among others, adapt their organisation and operations to the current special circumstances. For example, municipalities must ensure that elder care, schools, sanitation, and other public services remain up and running.
Compulsory total defence duty for everyone aged 16 to 70
In Sweden, we have total defence duty. This means that in the event of a heightened state of alert, all residents, regardless of citizenship and between the ages of 16 and 70, can be called upon to serve in various ways and according to their ability. This may involve remaining at one’s place of work if its operations are considered vital to the country’s total defence or serving as a volunteer in other areas of the total defence system.
LÄNK TILL TOTALFÖRSVAR
Wartime posting
People considered vital to national security may be placed on war duty. As such, you have received a letter from your employer, during peacetime, assigning you a so-called wartime posting. You may in other ways receive information regarding your specific duties if Sweden faces war or the imminent threat of war. A wartime posting means that you will perform duties where you will have the greatest utility, and aid in operations deemed particularly vital to Sweden’s total defence. For many, this may entail performing duties at their regular job.