Anna Mia Ekström, Chair of SweDev, recently co-authored an op-ed in the Swedish newspaper Dagens Industri together with leading representatives from academia and the business sector. The authors warn that recent cuts to Sweden’s funding for global development research risk undermining the country’s long-standing leadership in innovation, global partnerships, and sustainable economic growth.
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Anna Mia Ekström, Chair of SweDev, recently co-authored an op-ed in the Swedish newspaper Dagens Industri (DI) together with leading representatives from academia and the business sector. The authors warn that recent cuts to Sweden’s funding for global development research risk undermining the country’s long-standing leadership in innovation, global partnerships, and sustainable economic growth. Below is a summary in English.
In the op-ed, the authors argue that Sweden’s new national branding initiative, “Made with Sweden”, emphasises openness, innovation, and international collaboration. However, at the same time, the Swedish government has significantly reduced funding for development research conducted in partnership with low- and middle-income countries
Over several decades, Swedish support has helped train thousands of researchers, strengthen institutions, and build long-term partnerships that benefit both partner countries and Sweden. These collaborations have contributed to scientific breakthroughs, stronger economies, and improved global preparedness for crises such as pandemics.
They warn that cutting this funding risks weakening Sweden’s credibility, global influence, and innovation capacity. Global challenges such as climate change, pandemics, and antimicrobial resistance require international scientific cooperation, and withdrawing support now could have long-term consequences.
The authors conclude by urging the Swedish government to reconsider its decision and reaffirm its commitment to global research partnerships. Without sustained investment in knowledge and collaboration, they argue, “Made with Sweden” risks becoming an empty slogan.