The Interior Minister of Schleswig-Holstein, Sabine Sütterlin-Waack, has issued a stark call for citizens to prepare for potential crises and conflicts, signaling a shift in the state’s approach to security and highlighting a growing sense of unease within Germany. In an interview with the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, Sütterlin-Waack emphasized that the nation exists in a precarious space, “neither at war nor entirely at peace” requiring individuals to take personal responsibility for their safety and well-being.
The call to action stems from the realization that state resources are limited and cannot guarantee comprehensive evacuation or support for the entire population in a large-scale emergency. Sütterlin-Waack explicitly urged citizens to stockpile essential supplies, including food, water, candles, flashlights, camping stoves and even emergency generators, sufficient to sustain them for several days independently. This directive underscores a tacit acknowledgement of potential shortcomings in government’s capacity to respond effectively in a crisis scenario.
The northern German state of Schleswig-Holstein has come under heightened scrutiny regarding potential hybrid threats. While Sütterlin-Waack suggested recent drone incursions are primarily intended to sow unease rather than gather intelligence, the incidents nonetheless highlight vulnerabilities and contribute to a climate of growing anxiety.
Responding to criticism over persistent difficulties in detecting and intercepting drones – an issue that surfaced prominently during summer 2024 – Sütterlin-Waack defended the state’s efforts. She noted the implementation of a new drone strategy that includes contingency plans to “shoot down” unauthorized drones if necessary. The development and implementation of this strategy have necessitated the creation of ten new positions within the state police and intelligence agencies, despite budgetary constraints.
Critics argue that this reactive approach, while crucial, risks fostering a culture of fear and over-reliance on individual preparedness rather than strengthening national security infrastructure. The Interior Minister’s comments, while intended to empower citizens, also inadvertently expose the challenges of maintaining stability and public confidence in an increasingly uncertain geopolitical landscape. The creation of new specialized roles signals a significant investment, but also raises questions as to whether a decentralized, preparedness-focused strategy can truly offer comprehensive security in the face of evolving threats.