Risk assessment as a basis for preparedness

Preparedness is always based on risk assessment. Such assessments shall be carried out comprehensively, considering all threat models, specified on the basis of changes in the threat assessments. This requires continuous and regular assessments and the updating of risks.

Threats can occur independently, simultaneously, or continuously. They may be surprising, or instantaneous, and may vary in duration. They can take place either as a deliberate action or without a specific purpose. It is difficult to predict the causes, sources, specific targets, objectives, extent of occurrence or ramifications of threats. It is not always possible to reliably assess their materialisation.

Leadership and coordination of preparedness

Being prepared is part of the daily work of all actors. Leadership, organisation and the division of responsibilities will remain as unchanged as possible during disturbances and exceptional circumstances. In the event of disturbances, operations shall be led by the responsible and competent authorities, or other actors responsible for safety in accordance with their respective duties and competences.

• The Government and the competent ministries shall lead, supervise and coordinate the safeguarding of society’s vital functions.
• Each competent authority shall use the powers laid down by law under normal conditions to prepare for and initiate operations.
• The Security Committee shall assist the Government to prepare for and coordinate measures aimed at managing overall security.
• Municipalities and businesses shall take responsibility for the planning of their preparedness under the coordination of the regional administration (Regional State Administrative Agencies, RSAA) and in cooperation with other actors.
• RSAA shall be responsible for regional national defence courses, for preparedness exercises and for the work of the preparedness committees.
• RSAA’s partnership with the Finnish Defence Forces is close and diverse.