Beyond Panic: How Sweden Prepares Citizens for Crisis and War

Sweden has sent all households a bright yellow 64-page booklet, simple in appearance but powerful in content: a practical guide to dealing with wars, blackouts, cyber attacks and misinformation. The title, Om krisen eller kriget kommer-'If a crisis or war comes,' is clear and direct. Although at first glance it may appear to be a design or lifestyle brochure, it is actually a real manual for surviving extreme crises.

This type of publication is not new in Sweden. The first version dates back to World War II and was updated until 1991. It was reintroduced in 2018, and the 2024 edition comes at a time of heightened international tension, particularly after Russia updated its nuclear doctrine allowing for the use of the atomic bomb in response to long-range missiles supplied by Western countries to Ukraine.

A manual designed for everyone

Created by theSwedish Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB), the manual is designed to be accessible to everyone. Unlike the US resources, which are available online but spread across several sites, the Swedish guide is physical, unified and always accessible, even without electricity or the Internet.

Printed in black and white with yellow highlights, the booklet has a clear and consistent layout. It uses readable fonts (Century Gothic for the titles, Garamond for the body), bullet points and icons to facilitate comprehension. According to Robin Fredholm, responsible for the design, the aim was to make the information clear for everyone, even those with visual or language difficulties.

Graphs explain civil warning signs, while symbols identify shelters such as underground stations. Checklists help to organise supplies of food, water and basic materials for at least seven days. It is not just about surviving, but doing so independently.

Preparing, also psychologically

The handbook makes it clear that all citizens between the ages of 16 and 70 are part of national defence, and that in the event of a crisis, one must be ready to contribute. In addition to material preparedness, there is a section on psychological stability, with tips to help children deal with anxiety by involving them in practical tasks to strengthen their sense of security.

The issue of misinformation is also addressed: only share verified news and only follow official sources. Emergency contacts, useful links and support resources are listed at the back of the booklet.

In the event of an evacuation, the sirens and the local media will give the instructions. Only the essentials must be brought: documents, money, medicines, food and a radio.

Design in the service of resilience

The manual is not meant to frighten, but to prepare. The graphic choices are not aesthetic, but functional for clarity. The bright yellow attracts attention, the organisation of information reduces stress in emergency situations.

With the escalation of the conflict in Ukraine and the increasing risk of conflict extension, Sweden chooses the path of awareness and organisation. Om krisen eller kriget kommer is an intelligently and rigorously thought-out survival guide: an example of how design can really save lives.

Source: https://www.government.se/government-policy/emergency-preparedness/