Cliff Notes – Is the EU preparing for war
- The French government plans to distribute a “survival manual” to households, advising residents on preparations for armed conflict, natural disasters, or health crises.
- Germany is doing something similar
- Nordic countries have already taken the first step in survival mode training.
- The 20-page document includes a checklist for a “survival kit”, actions to take during emergencies, and suggestions for community involvement, like joining reserve units.
- This initiative reportedly reflects France’s response to growing international tensions, particularly concerns regarding security in light of the Russian threat to Europe.
France issues survival manual to all households
The French government is reportedly planning to send a “survival manual” to all households containing advice on what to do in the event of an armed conflict, natural disaster or health crisis.
The document consists of around 20 pages and is divided into three parts, according to Europe 1 radio, the first being protecting “yourself and those around you”.
It suggests items people should prepare as part of a “survival kit”, including at least six litres of bottled water, 10 cans of food, batteries, a flashlight and medical supplies including paracetamol, compresses and saline solution.
The second part describes actions to take in the event of an imminent threat and lists emergency numbers as well as the steps to follow depending on the type of crisis. One part recommends closing all doors in the event of a nuclear accident.
The third section details how to “get involved” in defending the community, including by signing up for reserve units or firefighting groups.
If it is accepted by French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou it will be sent to all houses by the summer, Europe 1 reported.
French newspaper Le Figaro said the timing of the manual’s release “could easily suggest that the state is reacting to the unstable international situation”.
Is the EU preparing for war?
Previous guidance from the French government issued in 2023 for an “emergency kit” suggested:
• At least six litres of bottled water;
• Cans of food;
• Batteries and a flashlight;
• Medical supplies, including paracetamol, compresses and saline solution;
• A battery-operated radio;
• Basic tools;
• Warm clothes;
• Phone chargers;
• Cash;
• Prescription glasses;
• Duplicate keys;
• Photocopies of essential documents;
• Games to pass the time.
While French media said the manual does not mention Russia or the Ukraine war by name, earlier this month French President Emmanuel Macron warned the nation of “the Russian threat” faced by Europe as the US disengages from the continent. Suggesting that the EU preparing for war is a necesstity not a discussion.
“The Russian threat is here and is affecting European countries, affecting us,” Mr Macron said. “I want to believe that the US will stay by our side, but we have to be ready if they don’t.”
It comes after Sweden sent out a new version of a Cold War-era emergency booklet in October last year, advising its citizens on what to do in the event of crisis or war.
The 31-page brochure, which came after Sweden formally joined NATO and was titled If Crisis Or War Comes, was intended “to strengthen household preparations for crises and war”, its government said.
