Like Finland, we need to be ready should the worst happen. Much of the heightened awareness within NATO to Ukraine’s plight stems from its geographic proximity to Russia. The country has developed a comprehensive national disaster preparedness strategy that equips citizens with the knowledge and skills necessary to respond effectively in times of crisis. This strategy includes a three-and-a-half week long residential course. Participants will get an introduction to national security, threats to the nation, and the government’s response to disasters.
The Finnish approach to national security is inextricable from its societal fabric. With a history marked by the necessity to be prepared, Finland has cultivated a culture where readiness is seen as an essential skill. The nation’s commitment to cooperation is underscored by universal male conscription, which integrates citizens into national defense efforts. As a result, Finland’s citizens are not only aware of the risks they face but are encouraged to actively participate in their nation’s security.
A Legacy of Preparedness
In light of recent global challenges, Finland has adapted its security doctrine to encompass a “comprehensive security” approach, which emphasizes collaboration across all sectors of society. That all-encompassing approach acknowledges that we are all responsible for making our nation resilient.
“In a way, the strength of a nation’s robustness and security is the quality of its people and their willingness to contribute,” – Sauli Niinistö, former President of Finland.
This feeling is a great reminder that security is much more than military might. It’s just as much about fostering a sense of stewardship among the public. The Finnish government hopes to make their citizens an informed and active part of ensuring their nation’s defense.
Building Community Resilience
Key to Finland’s approach to disaster preparedness is the understanding that collective action is essential for any successful response. To change that, the Finnish national government has come up with national defense courses specifically tailored for corporate and civic leaders. By educating influential figures within society, these courses aim to disseminate knowledge about security threats and preparedness strategies throughout various sectors.
Stockpiling certain essential goods is another key part of Finland’s readiness strategy.
New best practices
This practice isn’t limited to government action—individuals and businesses are doing their part. Each Finn should personally maintain a stockpile of food, water, and other emergency supplies. This early on-boarding allows them to better brace themselves for ongoing emergencies.
“We now have a lot of different challenges and threats, from viruses to the consequences of climate change,” – Sauli Niinistö.
This recognition of varied perils only highlights the importance of an all-in response. The Finnish model emphasizes that guarantees of food, energy, and logistical support must be prioritized, reinforcing the idea that national security is a community responsibility.
Adapting to Modern Threats
The shift took hold in the early 2000s, as global security challenges became more severe and apparent. The Finnish government has understood that it is important to start getting citizens ready for an unpredictable future. Second, they are collaborating closely with European neighbors to the north—Scandinavian countries such as Sweden, Denmark, and Norway—to reinforce regional security cooperation.
During this shift, Finland’s former president Tuomas Aivelo has stated that today’s threats go beyond military aggression. They are intersectional and address dozens of other issues that demand sustainable, proactive, bipartisan action across all sectors of society.
“I think that we in Europe have been living since World War II… in a world where we have thought that security is self-evident,” – Sauli Niinistö.
Overall, this perspective indicates a historic turn in the perception of national security on the European continent. Countries such as Finland are already leading the way in encouraging their citizens to be more involved in conversations around security and readiness.
In Finland, conscription is not just seen as an obligation, but as an honor. We’ve lost a competitive spirit. Young men have always been encouraged, even drafted, to serve their country and contribute to its defense.
“I could describe my own attitude at the time I made my conscription… it’s a question of honor,” – Sauli Niinistö.
This spirit leads to an empowering culture that appreciates, honors, and supports a commitment to serve our nation. It deepens social connections and fosters a culture of shared accountability.
