Sweden's international position and prospects at a time of increasing globalization
Globalization means the world is shrinking and traditional boundaries are being transcended. The international economy is becoming increasingly integrated through trade, investments and the spread of technology. Communication, migration and travel are also helping to bring the countries of the world closer together. Everywhere, countries are intensifying their efforts to become more visible on the global stage, to capture market shares and to build relationships and partnerships with the outside world. Competition for attention, contacts and talent is becoming increasingly fierce.
The fact that the world is shrinking fast also means that conflicts and oppression in other continents and regions are having a greater impact on us. For Sweden, the whole world is becoming a ‘local’ environment, and developments even in remote parts are impacting directly on our everyday lives. There is a growing need for dialogue, exchange and cooperation with new partners. Globalization, however, leads not only to increased tension and competition but also to closer international cooperation at all levels of society.
In all corners of the globe, countries are stepping up their efforts to attract attention and to establish long-term relationships with the world around them. The reason is seldom national vanity – they are clearly motivated by political considerations. Competition for the world’s attention, respect and trust is becoming increasingly fierce. Countries need to be seen and to inspire confidence if they are to be listened to and if they are to be viewed as reliable partners.
A country’s ability to attain its policy goals, to attract trade, investments and visitors, and to be involved in exchanges of talent and creativity is largely dependent on how that country is perceived. Putting Sweden on the map and generating interest and confidence in our country is becoming an increasingly important task. Which means that the way people in other countries perceive us is also of growing importance. This applies in the development cooperation sphere as well. When confidence in Sweden is high, effective and enduring partnerships can be initiated.