Threats
Finnish society is quite safe. However, disruptions may occur, even in normal conditions, and seriously influence the life of many Finns. In recent years, the water supply crisis in Nokia, Central Finland, and the school shootings are examples of this.
Preparedness is always based on risk assessments, which must be comprehensive and include all threat scenarios. Threat scenarios are specified on the basis of changes in threat assessments, which require continuous and regular assessment and updating of risks. The Security Strategy for Society 2017 utilises the national risk assessment for 2015 and the threat scenarios of the Security Strategy for Society 2010 as a common basis for the preparedness risk assessment. The next national risk assessment will be published in 2018.
The threat scenarios described in the Security Strategy for Society 2010 consist of the following:
- a serious failure of the power supply
- serious disruptions to telecommunications and information systems
- serious disruptions to logistics
- serious disturbances in the community infrastructure
- a serious disruption to food supply
- serious disturbances in the finance and payments system
- failing access to public finances funding
- a serious disturbance in public health and well-being
- major accidents, extreme weather conditions and environmental threats
- terrorism and other type of crime posing a threat to society
- serious disturbances in border management
- political, financial and military pressure, and
- the use of military force.
The authorities, organisations and companies can plan their preparedness by adapting threat scenarios according to their operating environments. Many municipalities, for instance, have drawn up preparedness plans based on the Security Strategy for Society.