Swedish councils question funding for planned crisis duties

Sweden’s local-government association says proposed new crisis-preparedness duties lack long-term funding, as municipalities prepare for stronger responsibilities to keep essential services running during crises and war.

The criticism from SKR, which represents municipalities and regions, was reported by Sveriges Radio on Sunday. Civil Defence Minister Carl-Oskar Bohlin pointed to SEK 1.4 billion allocated now and said more money was planned for 2027, with permanent support after 2029.

The government’s bill would require municipalities to provide gathering places where residents could receive basic support during crises or heightened readiness. It also sets stronger requirements for planning, exercises and maintaining essential services.

The proposed start date is 1 January 2027. Parliament is still considering the legislation; the new duties have not yet been enacted.

In the bill, the government says municipalities and regions should receive state compensation for new duties and higher ambitions. The dispute is over lasting financial support, rather than whether any money has been allocated.

Money is not the only constraint. Mathias Sandkvist, security coordinator in Degerfors, told the broadcaster that a shortage of preparedness expertise was a particular obstacle.

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