Public-Private Collaboration in Swedish Crisis Preparedness: A case study on the local level

Abstract

In the midst of Sweden rebuilding its total defence, an increasing amount of vital societal services are outsourced to the private sector. Despite the private sector’s growing influence in local Swedish crisis preparedness and management, their role in the system remains vague. To deepen our understanding on the dynamics between the public and private sector in crisis preparedness on a local level, this thesis investigates enabling factors for efficient collaborations, as well as challenges to effective partnerships. The thesis focuses entirely on the perspectives of the public sector, as they are the ones initiating collaborations, as well as the ones ultimately responsible for a functioning local crisis preparedness and management. To achieve this, ten interviews were conducted, nine with representatives from different municipalities, and one with a regional actor that facilitates collaboration between different actors in the region of Stockholm. The study sought to identify key enabling factors and challenges within these private-public relationships, using a theoretical framework focused on partnership resilience, strengths, and weaknesses.

The findings of the study are primarily confirming of the theoretical framework. Key takeaways are that partnerships are complex to navigate, with many intertwining factors contributing to the effectiveness of collaborations. In sum, it is vital for local public actors to understand each other’s roles and responsibilities, have clear contracts in place, and be open to flexibility and adaptability in cooperation with the private sector. In addition, established contact networks, open communication, and learning from past crises are vital to facilitate future effective cooperations.