A recent survey reveals that the increasing global unrest has not prompted more Danes to prepare for emergencies, despite recommendations from authorities to stock up for potential crises.
Survey Findings on Emergency Preparedness in Denmark
A newly released survey conducted by Epinion for DR indicates that a significant portion of the Danish population is not heeding the advice of the Danish Emergency Management Agency (Beredskabsstyrelsen) to prepare for emergencies. Since June of the previous year, the agency has recommended that all Danes keep essential supplies at home to sustain themselves for three days in the event of a major crisis, such as a war or attacks on critical infrastructure like water supplies. Despite these recommendations, 62 percent of respondents reported that they have not prepared adequately, while only 34 percent claimed they have followed the guidelines.
This marks a slight improvement since last November when 66 percent had not prepared, and only 30 percent had complied with the recommendations.
Experts Weigh In
The findings have surprised some experts, including Michael Bang Petersen, a behavioral researcher and professor of political science at Aarhus University. He attributes the lack of preparedness to two primary reasons. “Even though there is more turmoil in the world, people may think, ‘It’s not an immediate threat. I can always do it just before things go wrong,’” he explains. “Additionally, there are cultural tendencies in Denmark where individuals may feel that ensuring their own security is not a personal responsibility but rather that of the government.”
Other experts, however, are not as shocked. Rasmus Dahlberg, a researcher in emergency management and societal security who has previously worked at the Danish Defence Academy, argues that the government’s delivery of preparedness recommendations has been inadequate. “Simply sending these guidelines through e-Boks and posting them on the agency’s website is not enough,” he states. He urges the minister to revisit these recommendations and remind the Danish public of their importance.
Calls for a Comprehensive Emergency Strategy
Iben Bjørnsson, another expert in civil preparedness from the Defence Academy, emphasizes that the state has not done enough in this area and points out the absence of a cohesive emergency plan. “To elevate this issue, the government cannot just distribute a single pamphlet,” she asserts. “It should be a continuous topic that engages the public, fostering a heightened awareness of preparedness among the population.”
Bjørnsson also notes that a significant reason behind the lack of individual preparedness is the absence of clear leadership in this effort. Despite the establishment of a new ministry for societal safety and preparedness, the roles and scope of this ministry remain ambiguous. “The minister is uncertain about what he is empowered to do. A commission is currently investigating this. What is missing is a singular conductor who can take charge and provide firm guidance for the entire preparedness initiative,” she states.
Methodology of the Survey
The report was generated through Epinion’s research, which included a comprehensive sample of 1,028 interviews with a representative selection of Danes aged 18 and older. The survey was conducted online from March 19 to March 26, 2025. Following data collection, a weighted analysis was performed to ensure that the demographic composition of the survey respondents accurately reflected the characteristics of Denmark’s voting population, considering factors such as gender, age, education, region, household type, and political affiliation.
Government Response to Preparedness Concerns
Torsten Schack Pedersen, the Minister for Societal Safety and Preparedness from the Liberal Party (Venstre), asserts that there is no doubt about the responsibilities of his office. “Fundamentally, it is to ensure that Denmark is a safe and resilient society. Therefore, my clear message is to build up the emergency preparedness for a duration of 72 hours, as recommended [by the Danish Emergency Management Agency],” he states.
However, he acknowledges the need for additional efforts to enhance preparedness among the population. Consequently, the ministry plans to ramp up campaigns and communication initiatives aimed at encouraging more Danes to take the necessary steps to prepare. This increase in awareness is vital for ensuring that the authorities can focus on assisting the country’s vulnerable citizens during a crisis.
Public Perception and Future Directions
As Denmark grapples with these findings, the public’s perception of their own security may need to shift. The sporadic nature of domestic crises and the perceived remoteness of global threats could contribute to a complacent attitude towards emergency preparedness.
Moving forward, a combination of effective communication and community engagement will be essential in reshaping attitudes towards personal preparedness. The responsibility lies not only with the government to provide clear instructions and resources but also with individuals to recognize their role in ensuring their own safety and that of their communities.
The implications of this survey highlight a critical gap in Denmark’s emergency readiness, calling for immediate action to better inform and prepare the population for any unforeseen challenges that may arise in the future.
