As Russia’s invasion of Ukraine nears its third year, Sweden and Finland are urging their citizens to prepare for the possibility of war, raising questions about whether Canada should adopt similar measures.
Sweden recently distributed a 32-page pamphlet, In Case of Crisis or War, to all households, emphasizing that citizens and residents aged 16 to 70 are part of the country’s total defense effort. The guide includes practical advice on sheltering during air raids, stopping bleeding, digital security, and assembling essential supplies like food, water, batteries, and cash to last a week. Finland’s “72 Hours” campaign also encourages preparedness, offering an online quiz to test citizens’ readiness for emergencies and providing a national guide outlining roles in civil defense and military conflict.
Canada, however, approaches emergency preparedness differently, focusing on natural disasters and non-military crises. The federal government provides guidance on building a 72-hour emergency kit for hazards like wildfires, earthquakes, and nuclear incidents but does not emphasize readiness for war.
Experts suggest that Canada’s geographical position makes such preparation less urgent. Political scientist Stephen Saideman of Carleton University notes that the Arctic Ocean separates Canada from Russia, making a direct invasion unlikely. “Either they risk nuclear war, or they don’t attack us,” he explained. Nonetheless, he emphasizes the importance of making a nation less appealing as a target, pointing to Sweden and Finland’s strategic mobilization as a deterrent against aggression.
Sweden and Finland’s recent efforts stem from their proximity to Russia and historical conflicts, particularly Finland’s wars with Russia in the 1940s. Both nations are now members of NATO, which adds another layer of security but also potential risks, particularly if geopolitical dynamics shift under new U.S. leadership. Former President Donald Trump, set to return to office in January, has previously threatened to withdraw support from NATO members failing to meet defense spending targets, a group that includes Canada.
Frédéric Labarre, a political science professor at the Royal Military College of Canada, views Sweden and Finland’s actions as “prudent planning” and an opportunity for Canada to reflect on its own readiness. He argues that Canadians rely too heavily on government guidance and could benefit from a broader culture of preparedness.
Public Safety Canada assures Canadians that national security agencies are actively monitoring threats and collaborating with domestic and international partners to ensure safety. However, unlike Sweden and Finland, Canada has not framed national defense as a responsibility shared across all sectors and individuals.
While the likelihood of a direct attack on Canada remains remote, the Nordic countries’ campaigns highlight the importance of societal resilience and readiness in uncertain times. Whether Canada should adopt a similar model remains a topic of debate, shaped by geography, history, and evolving global threats.
