The ever-changing political landscape presents new conflict- and war zones around the globe. This requires that European soldiers have to find themselves in peace operations, in unfamiliar Countries and regions, to fight against various troublemakers. This does not always goes as planned and results in losses and wounded soldiers.
Who cares about the injured soldiers? How actually does the medical system work in a modern European army? That is the essence of this thesis.
In order to analyze these questions, two European countries of different size and approach but still similar technology, mindsets and engagement for global peace will be studied. Therefore Sweden- and France’s military healthcare systems will be compared to see if there is anything that differs substantially.
We live in a modern and highly technological society where most physical injuries can be treated. Yet there are still soldiers that think that it is a taboo to show their invisible wounds and feelings when they return. Some have trouble to reintegrate to a life back home. This shows that there is still work to be done in order to treat the invisible injuries after a deployment.
The need for a plan for social rehabilitation is as important as the plan for medical rehabilitation after a trauma. And for this to happen, the two armed forces need to take greater responsibility.
Erasmus