Mainstreaming preparedness? - Planning for preparedness in policy and practice

As the world changes, society's preparedness has become a new focus, turning into an integrated responsibility for the entire public sector at all levels. This project will examine what happens when national policy is implemented locally, examining the implications for local governments and their responsibility for citizens' welfare. Drawing on gender mainstreaming research, and through using the concept of “preparedness mainstreaming” our ambition is to understand and critically analyse how preparedness is given meaning in local practice. This project aims to analyze and problematize preparedness planning by examining how municipalities address these demands amidst thematic crowding with other policy goals like gender equality, health, sustainability, and digitalization. 

This project will be carried out though an analysis of policy on the national level and practice at the local level in two regions, Värmland and Västerbotten. Key research questions include framing preparedness in national policy, strategies promoted by local policymakers, and tensions between national and local government. The project will employ a combination of policy analysis, interviews, and participatory observations to understand the practical translation of preparedness policies. By bridging theory and practice, the study seeks to enhance societal resilience and equitable preparedness planning.