The Swedish Government has announced a significant increase in its development assistance to Ukraine and humanitarian initiatives, with nearly SEK 1.7 billion being freed up from the 2025 budget. This reprioritisation aims to enhance support to Ukraine amidst ongoing conflict with Russia.
In a statement, Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Benjamin Dousa explained that Sweden’s decision is driven by the need to address growing humanitarian crises worldwide, particularly in Ukraine, Sudan, Gaza, and Yemen. The US’ suspension of parts of its development assistance has further exacerbated these situations, prompting Sweden to step forward with an extensive reprioritisation.
The SEK 1.67 billion allocation will primarily focus on supporting Ukraine’s development, as well as life-saving initiatives globally. Dousa emphasised that this increase is necessary to augment the aid provided by other countries and address human suffering in crisis-stricken regions.
In addition to increased support for Ukraine, Sweden has decided to phase out its regional development cooperation strategy with Asia and the Pacific region. Instead, the country will focus on strengthening bilateral relations with individual nations in the region, prioritising cooperation and Swedish interests.
Sweden’s decision to discontinue development assistance to Afghanistan stems from limited long-term development possibilities. However, humanitarian support for women and girls in Afghanistan remains a priority for the Swedish Government.
Dousa highlighted that support to Ukraine is of utmost importance, both for the country itself and for European security. He noted that increased aid will enable Sweden to resist Russia’s aggressive actions, as Ukraine fights not only for its own freedom but also for the future of Europe.
This development comes amidst a rapidly changing international landscape. The Swedish Government believes that reforming its development assistance is necessary to address emerging challenges.
Sweden’s commitment to global humanitarian initiatives and support for vulnerable regions underscores the country’s dedication to promoting peace, stability, and sustainable growth worldwide.
Key Points:
- SEK 1.67 billion will be freed up from the 2025 development assistance budget to enhance support to Ukraine and life-saving initiatives globally.
- The increase in aid is driven by growing humanitarian crises, particularly in Ukraine, Sudan, Gaza, and Yemen.
- Sweden is phasing out its regional development cooperation strategy with Asia and the Pacific region and will focus on strengthening bilateral relations instead.
- Development assistance to Afghanistan will be discontinued due to limited long-term development possibilities.
In conclusion, Sweden’s decision to increase support for Ukraine and humanitarian initiatives marks a significant shift in its development assistance policy. By prioritising critical regions and addressing pressing global challenges, the Swedish Government is reiterating its commitment to promoting peace, stability, and sustainable growth worldwide.