Strategic toolbox for hybrid threats. A framework for common understanding of the problem

Instability and unpredictability are key characteristics of the present security situation. In peacetime, antagonistic actors use conventional and unconventional means in a coordinated way to achieve specific goals. Sweden needs to increase its ability to counter these so called hybrid threats. Based on the EU framework for countering hybrid threats, a framework for a Swedish strategic toolbox is proposed. In order to operationalise the theoretical discussion on hybrid threats, and the proposed framework, the report presents a fictitious scenario with hybrid threats aimed at Sweden. The scenario describes both the course of events and possible countermeasures. With the framework for a strategic toolbox for countering hybrid threats as a starting point, a number of suggestions for strengthening Sweden's ability to counter hybrid threats are presented. Suggestions such as a national strategy for mitigating hybrid threats, enhanced exercises, the establishment of a national reinforcement capacity, the development of communicative preparedness, a review of relevant legislation for countering hybrid threats, and improved capabilities for hybrid threat investigation and evaluation.