totalförsvaret

Totalförsvaret, or the total defence, is Sweden's overarching framework for national security. It is the integrated mobilization of military and civilian resources to protect the country from armed attack and to manage crises that threaten society’s essential functions. The concept emphasizes a whole-of-society approach, where not only the armed forces but also civil authorities, private sector actors, and citizens contribute to defense and resilience.

The totalförsvaret consists of two main components: the military totalförsvar and the civilförsvaret. The military totalförsvar is primarily organized by the Swedish Armed Forces (Forsvarsmakten) and covers defense planning, readiness, training, and deterrence. Civilförsvaret is coordinated by the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB) in collaboration with municipalities, regional authorities, and owners of critical infrastructure. It encompasses emergency preparedness, civil protection, and the continuity of essential services such as energy, health care, transportation, water, food supply, and digital infrastructure.

Implementation and governance rely on the government setting objectives, legislation, and overarching strategies. The MSB coordinates civil protection efforts, while the Armed Forces lead military planning and mobilization. Cooperation with the private sector, municipalities, and civil society is central to the concept, and exercises and crisis-management arrangements are used to test and develop capabilities.

History and development of totalförsvaret reflect Sweden’s changing security environment. The concept originated in the Cold War era and evolved toward crisis preparedness and resilience after its end. In recent years, heightened security concerns in Europe have renewed emphasis on integrating military and civilian resources to safeguard national security and societal resilience.