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Global cooperation and a strong UN

Listening, creativity and active diplomacy

During our two-year membership in the UN Security Council 2017–2018, all of Sweden’s work was underpinned by international law, human rights, gender equality and a humanitarian perspective.
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Creative Sweden

We love to see creativity flourish

The cultural and creative industries are making an ever-increasing contribution to Swedish exports. At the same time, they play an important part in the modern image of Sweden. Did you know that Sweden is the world’s most successful exporter of chart music, in relation to GDP?

The European Commission’s European Innovation Scoreboard places Sweden in top place. Sweden also ranks ranks number one on the Forbes’ annual list of the Best Countries for Business.

We are proud to say that creativity is flourishing in Sweden.

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Democracy and human rights

Sweden is working to counteract the shrinking scope for democracy, freedom of expression and human rights

Particular focus is on the safety of journalists, conditions for women journalists, the principle of public access to official documents, and source criticism as an answer to disinformation.

Freedom of expression may be something we take for granted here in Sweden, but it is a right that is increasingly being challenged.

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Climate and oceans

Combating climate change and its consequences

Sweden aims to be one of the world’s first fossil-free societies through its new ambitious climate goal of net zero emissions by 2045.

To achieve this, all actors in society must work actively to reduce emissions. Collaboration between government, business and civil society is key.

Global warming poses considerable risks for societies around the world. Failing to reduce greenhouse gas emissions could have profound consequences.

2030 Agenda: Sustainable development

Working together for a better world is one of the greatest gifts we can give to each other and to future generations

In 2015, world leaders agreed to 17 Global Goals for a better world by 2030. It is the most ambitious agreement for sustainable development ever adopted, with the aim that by 2030, the world will eradicate poverty and hunger, realise the human rights of all, reduce inequalities and injustice around the world, achieve gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls, and ensure the lasting protection of the planet and its natural resources.

Free trade

Which breakfast would you choose?

Without international trade, your weekend breakfast would be much less colourful.

Your morning coffee could come from Colombia or Vietnam, your orange juice from the United States or Brazil, and your grapes from Italy or South Africa. By importing goods from other countries, we help strengthen these countries and the people who produce what we eat and drink. And this is just one of many examples of the benefits of free trade.

Feminist foreign policy

Sweden is the first country to pursue a feminist foreign policy

Throughout the world, women are neglected in terms of resources, representation and rights. This is the simple reason why we are pursuing a feminist foreign policy – with full force, around the world (The Government’s Statement of Foreign Policy).

Now, the Swedish Ministry for Foreign Affairs has launched a handbook for Sweden’s feminist foreign policy. Get inspired!

A strong and cohesive EU

The EU is Sweden’s most important political arena

Sweden is pushing for a stronger EU and stands up for the common values that form the foundation of EU cooperation: freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights.

In 2018 the Government will give particular priority to questions concerning a social Europe for jobs and inclusive growth; an ambitious climate, energy and environment policy; a common asylum system and expanded cooperation on migration; and a secure EU in a secure world.