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Finland's private sector steps up in national defense strategy
When Janne Ahtoniemi springs into action during a crisis, he won't be on a battlefield. As head of risk management at S Group, Finland's largest supermarket chain, his role is to ensure food supplies keep flowing if the country faces aggression or a major cyberattack.
Total defense evolves into comprehensive security
For decades, Finland and its Nordic neighbors-Sweden, Norway, and Denmark-have embraced a "total defense" approach, integrating military and civilian efforts. Since Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, Finland has expanded this model into what it now calls "comprehensive security." The shift reflects heightened concerns over the country's 1,340-kilometer (830-mile) border with Russia.
Last year, the Finnish government formalized the strategy in The Security Strategy for Society, a document guiding national preparedness. Critical businesses, including supermarkets, defense contractors, and cybersecurity firms, now collaborate with government agencies in "preparedness committees" and participate in nationwide drills.
Supermarkets stockpile essentials in fortified warehouses
S Group and rival retailer Kesko are legally required to maintain strategic reserves of staples like flour, sugar, and cooking oil. These supplies are stored in dedicated warehouses or underground bunkers equipped with backup generators. Both companies work closely with the National Emergency Supply Organisation to refine contingency plans.
"We want to ensure Finnish society functions every day, regardless of circumstances,"
Jyrki Tomminen, Kesko executive
Ahtoniemi describes the drills as a "significant time investment" for organizations but emphasizes their necessity. Details of the plans remain classified, with both S Group and Kesko declining to disclose specifics.
Every citizen plays a role in national resilience
Finland's approach extends beyond corporations. All adults are expected to contribute to national defense, says Tom Woolmore, a Northern European security expert. The system is deeply practical: reservists like Aalto University philosophy professor Frank Martella could be reassigned based on their civilian skills rather than returning to military roles.
"When something happens, I'll be told what to do,"
Frank Martella, navy reservist and academic
Trust and equality underpin Finland's preparedness
Psychologist Jennifer De Paola attributes Finland's strong civic engagement to two factors: high trust in government and a cultural prioritization of safety. Her research with children aged 10-12 revealed that Finnish youth associate happiness with security, not fun-a sentiment that persists into adulthood.
Martella adds that Finland's low corruption and societal equality further strengthen public trust. "The more equal the society, the more people trust each other," he notes. Woolmore highlights these values as central to Finland's resilience, though specifics of contingency plans remain guarded secrets.
Preparedness spans cyber threats to financial disruptions
Exercises cover scenarios beyond conventional warfare, including cyberattacks, food and water shortages, and financial system breaches. The goal is to ensure continuity across all critical infrastructure, with businesses and authorities training together to respond swiftly.
