Call for applications for funding for the project “Legal Review concerning overarching framework legislation in the areas of Societal Security and Civil Preparedness in the Nordic countries”

All societal regulation is based on legal norms operationalised through the rule of law, which is particularly central for preparedness and societal security. Legislative processes in this area are advancing rapidly at both national and EU level and define society’s scope for action before, during, and after crises. The Nordic region is a strategically important area in an increasingly uncertain security environment. National framework legislation on crisis management and preparedness is fundamental to societal resilience.

Given the likelihood of future polycrises and hybrid threats affecting multiple sectors and countries, it is essential that legislation does not create barriers to effective Nordic cooperation. There is therefore a need to map and compare Nordic framework legislation on civil preparedness and crisis management. Such a review would strengthen cross-national understanding while safeguarding national sovereignty. It would also enhance the joint Nordic capacity to act in crises and threats.

The Nordic Council of Ministers considers this work to offer clear Nordic added value that cannot be achieved through national efforts alone. Societal security, preparedness, and resilience are identified as key cross-sectoral priorities within the organization. On this basis, an open call is launched for a Legal Review of overarching framework legislation on Societal Security and Civil Preparedness in the Nordic countries, resulting in a report and related presentations in English.

The purpose of the project is to conduct a Legal Review on Resilience and Preparedness through a mapping and comparative analysis of Nordic framework legislation on preparedness. The review will position Nordic legislation in relation to requirements and expectations from supranational organisations and alliances such as the EU and NATO.

The main deliverable is a report synthesising research, national experiences, and implications for future policy development within the mandate of the Nordic Council of Ministers. 

The report should identify differences in legal structures and priorities that may unintentionally hinder cross-border cooperation during crises, in addition it should provide evidence-based recommendations and proactive insights that can serve as a foundation for policy action. The analysis should also compare Nordic legislation on crisis management and civil preparedness in both peacetime and situations of heightened preparedness or extraordinary circumstances, assessing how differing Nordic concepts—such as total preparedness, total defence, and comprehensive security—interact and potentially conflict.

Furthermore, the review should examine the alignment of Nordic legislation with existing and forthcoming supranational regulations and guidelines and should identify potential border, judicial, and coordination obstacles that could undermine a joint Nordic response to multinational crises. The Legal Review should include a comparative legal analysis, an assessment of national guiding principles, and a valuation of risks to effective Nordic cooperation.

Up to 12 months (2026-2027). 

• Any municipal, regional, or national authorities,
• Universities and colleges, 
• Research institutes and other non- profit organizations
• Business enterprises cannot be the main applicants or recipients of funding. However, they may be included as project participants, participate in the project group, or work on the project on behalf of the project owner

The NCM is looking to fund a project up to maximum of DKK 1 500 000. 

Questions regarding the open call can be sent to linowm@norden.org by 20.5.2026. 

Applications must be sent to metsch@norden.org by 5.6.2026. 

Attach a pdf-version of the application.

By submitting your application, you agree that the Nordic Council of Ministers can process it, and any personal data it contains, electronically. 

The Nordic Council of Ministers evaluates project applications. These proposals are assessed against the criteria as described in the above Call for application file.