More Than Sum of Its Parts? NATO Can Benefit From Nordic Models of Holistic Security
By: G-M-F Org. 04-02-24
Re:
https://www.gmfus.org/news/more-sum-...istic-security
Finland's accession to NATO on April 4, 2023, followed by Sweden's accession on March 7 this year, marked a
turning point in regional security. With all Northern European countries now part of the same collective defense
alliance, what benefits will NATO reap from its newest members?
Finland and Sweden are widely recognized as net security providers for the alliance, contributing robust defense
capabilities. However, a less emphasized yet significant contribution lies in their whole-of-society approaches to
security. While not identical, Finland’s comprehensive security and Sweden’s total defense models both embrace
a holistic security framework—a concept that is crucial for enhancing societal preparedness and resilience against
disruptions and emergencies. These models engage all levels of society, from citizens to political leaders, in
security and defense considerations.
Especially since the annexation of Crimea in 2014, civil preparedness and resilience have become increasingly
essential to NATO's credible deterrence and defense. In keeping with Article 3 of the North Atlantic Treaty,
NATO has taken significant steps since 2016 to enhance the resilience of its member states, individually and
collectively. The 2021 Vilnius Summit Resilience Commitment added to the momentum, while the establishment
of a specific NATO Resilience Committee in 2022 boosted coordination efforts. Nevertheless, the ongoing decade
has unequivocally highlighted the need to further strengthen our collective preparedness and resilience against
complex security threats ranging from pandemics to hybrid and conventional warfare scenarios.
The Nordic whole-of-society models provide valuable insights for addressing challenges facing the alliance.
For example, Finland's experiences show that expanding security beyond defense-centric definitions to an
all-hazards perspective increases societal participation beyond traditional defense structures. Engaging
stakeholders from private companies to NGOs not only bridges the gap between civilian and military entities
but also builds societal trust and a shared "preparedness mindset". Furthermore, both Finland and Sweden
promote citizen involvement in security through education, communication, and participation in civil or
military duties, enhancing citizen agency.
As new members, Finland and Sweden should leverage their experience with whole-of-society models,
integrating them into NATO operations where relevant. NATO members stand to gain from Nordic lessons
learned in countering hybrid threats, such as their experiences in responding to weaponized migration at
Finland's eastern border or to disinformation campaigns. Moreover, both countries can contribute their
longstanding commitments on citizen preparedness and public-private partnerships in preparedness and
supply chain resilience, as well as their expertise in building civil defense shelters and mobilizing citizens
to support national defense.
The year 2024 presents major challenges for the alliance, including threats that intensifying disinformation
campaigns pose during key elections in numerous member states. Investing in civil preparedness and
resilience can provide NATO with a greater capacity to counter these threats. This not only enhances
NATO's internal cohesion, but also helps to strengthen the resilience of democracy.
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Personal note: Well it seems the gang is getting it together. I would imagine
it doesn't sit well with Putin (ah what a shame). His motis agenda has gone
astray. But now he's enclosed on all fronts with NATO nations. Knowing
that aggression on one will bring the hoard down on him. It's his own
doing and lesson that took some time to recognize prior to their enlistment
in NATO. Security rules - whereas the wild card nations will suffer from
non-compliance rules and working independently without others to
prevent an invasion - or hostile actions.
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Boats