Engaging local communities, training volunteers and establishing clear coordination mechanisms between authorities are among the lessons the Republic of Moldova can learn from Sweden’s experience in crisis management. These practices were discussed by Karl Torring, a strategic adviser at the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency, in an interview for the “Security Corner” project.
The expert explained that Sweden uses a climate vulnerability assessment system under which public institutions and local authorities are required to identify risks arising from climate change and develop plans to reduce them.
According to Karl Torring, Sweden has a national climate change adaptation directive that sets out responsibilities for government agencies and local councils. They must assess vulnerabilities and identify the risks facing their communities, including those associated with floods and other extreme weather events.
Another important element is funding for preventive measures. The Swedish agency provides financial support to local councils for climate adaptation projects and flood risk reduction, while local authorities contribute part of the costs.
When it comes to crisis management, Sweden applies the principle of proximity, meaning that the response should begin as close as possible to where the problem occurs. The institution or authority responsible for a particular facility must initially manage the situation. If local resources prove insufficient, coordination is transferred to the regional level and, subsequently, to the national level.
“Clear cooperation mechanisms and a clear chain of command for crisis management are essential for us,” Karl Torring explained.
The expert stressed that emergency preparedness should not be separated from preparations for threats to national security. Sweden is developing a total defence system that connects civil and military defence, enabling institutions to respond even in situations of heightened alert.
Citizens play an important role in this system. In Sweden, people aged between 16 and 70 may be required to perform a role within the total defence system when called upon. At the same time, authorities conduct public awareness campaigns and involve housing associations and local communities in crisis preparedness projects.
Torring also highlighted the need to identify vulnerable groups so that authorities can anticipate how they might be affected by climate-related events and provide support tailored to their needs.
Speaking specifically about the Republic of Moldova, the expert recalled that he had previously taken part in an assessment mission examining the country’s national disaster risk reduction system. Among the recommendations made at the time were improving communication with different segments of the population and strengthening the capacity of emergency response services.
He also suggested that Moldova could invest in volunteer training and support civil society organisations willing to help prepare communities for emergencies.
“We were very impressed by the Republic of Moldova during the UCPM mission we carried out previously. The level of the conference, the quality of the reports and the organisation are things that we would also like to draw inspiration from in Sweden,” Karl Torring said.
The interview was conducted as part of the “Security Corner” project and explores Sweden’s experience in strengthening national resilience, managing climate risks and preparing institutions and communities for crisis situations.