Sweden and the World – EU, UN, and the Nordics
Sweden is a small country with strong international ties. This module covers the EU, the UN, Nordic cooperation, defence, and foreign aid.
What this module covers
- EU Membership
- UN and Aid Policy
- The Nordic Region
- Defence and Security
- International Cooperation
EU Membership
As a member of the EU, Sweden cooperates on issues such as trade, environment, agriculture, and migration. EU law takes precedence over national law in areas where the EU has jurisdiction.
UN and Foreign Aid
Sweden is an active member of the UN and has a long tradition of foreign aid. Sweden contributes with peacekeeping forces and humanitarian assistance.
The Nordic Region
The Nordic Council and the Nordic Council of Ministers foster cooperation among the five Nordic countries. The Nordic passport union and a free labour market have been in place since the 1950s.
Security and Defence
Sweden became a member of NATO in 2024 and also benefits from the EU's solidarity clause. The Swedish Armed Forces (Försvarsmakten) and total defence (totalförsvaret) encompass both military and civil defence.
Real-world examples
Example: Euro vs. Krona
Sweden has chosen to keep the Swedish krona despite its EU membership.
Example: Nordic Labour Market
You can work in Denmark or Norway without a special work permit.
Frequently asked questions
Practice International Questions
Practise with real sample questions about Sweden and the world.