In March last year, Sweden’s NATO accession was finalized, and the NATO flag was raised at Norrbotten’s air fleet in Luleå, just like at other Swedish defense bases. A more anxious environment seems to have led to an increased willingness to defend.
Interest in defending Sweden has increased by five percentage points to 41 percent from 36 percent when the previous survey was conducted a year ago.
“100 percent”
Defending Sweden is a matter of course for young Oliver Jurado Palmgren, who recently enlisted.
– 100 percent, partly it is the law and then it is my duty, he says when asked if he is prepared to defend Sweden with weapons and with his life as an effort.
Men more willing to take up arms
Men are more prepared than women to defend Sweden with weapons. Only 23 percent of the women surveyed are ready for defense, while 59 percent of the men are. The willingness to defend is greatest in men older than 65, least in women under 34.
– Wants to be safe and calm, a good life. If there is a war, you have to stand up, so be it, says Peter Mihajlović.
For some, however, the idea of carrying a weapon feels uncomfortable.
– It feels scary to hold a weapon. I would rather help care for people, help in society, than hold a weapon, says 18-year-old Sarah Ribic Smoljan.