A recent op-ed criticizes the reduction of Swedish research aid. Originally published in Global Bar Magazine, Rolf Carlman (former director at Sida) argues that the government’s cuts undermine both Sweden’s long-term role in international research cooperation and the country’s own capacity for development research.
Photo: National Cancer Institute/Unsplash
A recent op-ed criticizes the reduction of Swedish research aid. Originally published in Global Bar Magazine in Swedish, this is a short summary in English. In the article, Rolf Carlman (former director at Sida) argues that the government’s cuts undermine both Sweden’s long-term role in international research cooperation and the country’s own capacity for development research.
There has traditionally been broad agreement in Swedish politics about the importance of research and higher education for our welfare and competitiveness. This view has also been expressed by the current government. Carlman, therefore, questions why the government does not think this principle also should apply in shaping our policies for development cooperation.
Swedish research aid has historically supported major breakthroughs – such as malaria medicines and cholera vaccines – while strengthening universities abroad and at home.
According to Carlman, the cuts not only damage Sweden’s reputation as a reliable partner but also weaken global collaboration at a time of urgent challenges such as climate change, pandemics, and AI. At the same time, they risk eroding Sweden’s own knowledge base in development issues. He urges the government to redirect reserved aid funds to restore research support, safeguard Sweden’s international role, and secure its future capacity.