2026.10.16
Votes on FORUM26: Per-Anders Bergman, VAKA
”"At FORUM26, I want to understand how companies view their role in a drinking water crisis. What resources do they have, and how can they contribute when something happens?"”
Per-Anders Bergman works with drinking water preparedness at the Swedish National Food Agency and is part of VAKA, which provides support to municipalities during drinking water crises. At the Water Industry FORUM26, he participates in the panel to share experiences and gain insights from companies.
Why is it important for you to be part of FORUM26?
– FORUM26 is a scenario-based exercise where we get to follow how a crisis develops and discuss how different actors can act. This makes it concrete and gives us the opportunity to learn from each other's perspectives and experiences. In several of the situations that arise, VAKA can play a role by providing advice and support to the municipalities.
What do you want participants to understand about VAKA?
– We provide advice and peer support based on experiences of drinking water crises. We do not take over the municipality's responsibilities or decisions, but can be someone to play ball with when our own resources are not enough.
What do you want to get out of the day?
– I am curious about how industry representatives think as the scenarios develop. Do they see a role for themselves? What resources could they offer? It could be materials, people who can drive trucks or a laboratory that can help with analyses.
Why is it valuable to meet around these scenarios?
– They give companies the opportunity to understand how a crisis can develop and what challenges municipalities face. At the same time, I get to hear how companies think about contributing. Are they waiting for a request, or do they see opportunities to offer help themselves?
On November 19, municipalities, authorities and companies will meet at FORUM26 in Stockholm. Do you work with water supply, emergency preparedness or security? Sign up for FORUM26 and get a clearer picture of how your organization can contribute when the crisis occurs. The number of places is limited and the deadline for registration is November 9th.