Räddningstjänstens förmågor under höjd beredskap: en kartläggning av svenska räddningstjänster

The changing geopolitical situation in recent years has created a need for strengthened national preparedness in Sweden. To ensure that the country is prepared for potential crises or armed conflicts, the development and reinforcement of the civil defence has been prioritised. The Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB) is responsible for ensuring that the civil defence functions effectively during a heightened state of alert, with municipal rescue services playing a key role in protecting the population. This thesis aims to map the current capabilities of municipal rescue services to operate under a heightened state of alert. A literature review was conducted to provide a foundation for the study, followed by 35 semi-structured interviews with personnel from municipal rescue services, county administrative boards, and MSB. The study concentrates on three primary areas: resources, continuity management, and collaboration. The findings indicate variation in preparedness among municipal rescue services. While some have secured essential functions for operation during a heightened state of alert, others remain in an early development stage. Differences can primarily be explained by access to planning resources and organisational and individual conditions and levels of engagement. Despite these differences, municipal rescue services can, based on this study, be anticipated to reach an adequate level of operational capability during the 2030s. The study highlights the importance of coordinated development and collaborative efforts to strengthen national resilience.