Heightened state of alert

Heightened state of alert

The government may decide to declare a heightened state of alert in order to strengthen Sweden’s ability to defend itself. This may occur, for example, in the event of war or conflicts in our immediate vicinity, or if the situation in the wider world seriously affects our country or threatens our security and independence. In the event of heightened alert, you must follow the advice of the authorities and keep yourself informed of developments. If general conscription is introduced, those of you who are registered for military service must report for duty immediately.

Read more about total defence duty "Heightened state of alert" is a collective term for the alert levels "Increased state of alert" and "highest state of alert". 

Increased state of alert

Enhanced alert is the lower of the two levels. If the government decides to declare heightened alert, it is assessed that Sweden is at risk of war or that there are exceptional circumstances arising from war taking place outside Sweden’s borders. In such cases, society must begin to adapt to meet the needs of total defence. At the same time, normal activities should continue as far as possible.

Highest state of alert

The highest state of readiness is the highest of the two readiness levels and is automatically declared if Sweden goes to war. If the government decides to declare the highest state of readiness, this may also be due to a threat of war (i.e. not an actual state of war). All societal activities must then support total defence. Government agencies and local authorities must be organised for wartime conditions, and compulsory civil service is introduced.

Other laws during heightened alert

Heightened alert gives the government greater freedom to act and make various decisions, and other laws may be applied alongside those that apply in peacetime. For example, the state may requisition private property required for total defence. This may include buildings, transport and machinery.

A heightened state of readiness also means that, amongst other things, local authorities and government agencies must adapt their organisation and operations to the specific requirements that apply at that time. Even under difficult circumstances, the local authority is, for example, obliged to maintain services such as care for the elderly, schools and waste collection.