Sweden and United States Forge Agreement to Counter Malign Information Influence and Disinformation

In a significant step towards strengthening international cooperation against the growing threat of disinformation, Sweden has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United States aimed at countering foreign malign information influence activities. The agreement, formalized by Minister for Foreign Affairs Maria Malmer Stenergard, provides a framework for closer collaboration between the two nations in addressing the spread of disinformation and its detrimental impact on democratic societies.

The MoU was signed in the presence of Erik Ramanathan, the U.S. Ambassador to Sweden, marking a pivotal moment in the shared commitment of both countries to combat information manipulation. This partnership is set to enhance mutual efforts to identify, monitor, and neutralize foreign-driven disinformation campaigns that undermine trust, destabilize societies, and threaten national security.

“Foreign malign information influence activities pose a serious threat to the integrity of democratic processes and public trust. The spread of disinformation by foreign actors creates divisions, fosters uncertainty, and challenges the resilience of democratic institutions,” said Minister Malmer Stenergard during the signing ceremony. “This agreement will serve as a vital platform for strengthened cooperation, enabling Sweden and the United States to share expertise, best practices, and resources to tackle these security challenges more effectively.”

Strengthening Resilience and International Collaboration

Foreign malign information influence refers to actions by external actors who seek to exploit social vulnerabilities and political conflicts within target countries to further their own agendas. These activities are increasingly seen as a threat to global stability, particularly in an era where information flows rapidly across borders and can quickly distort public perception.

Sweden has long been at the forefront of addressing these challenges, working to build resilience against disinformation and safeguarding the credibility of public discourse. The Swedish government has made countering foreign influence campaigns a top priority, with a strong focus on ensuring that misinformation targeting Swedish society does not gain a foothold.

“Given the global nature of today’s information environment, it is imperative that nations work together to mitigate these threats,” Minister Malmer Stenergard continued. “This MoU with the U.S. represents a crucial step in enhancing our collective ability to address the growing scale of disinformation campaigns. By sharing knowledge and coordinating efforts, we can strengthen our societies’ ability to withstand these security threats.”

In addition to its bilateral cooperation with the United States, Sweden actively participates in numerous international initiatives aimed at countering disinformation. The country is an engaged member of several international networks that focus on information security, including partnerships with its Nordic neighbors, the European Union, and as an observer in the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism. Sweden’s role in these forums helps ensure that international responses to disinformation remain coordinated and effective.

A Shared Vision for Global Security

Both Sweden and the United States are committed to fostering a safer and more resilient global information environment. The MoU outlines a framework for increased information-sharing, joint research, and mutual support in countering foreign malign influence, with the shared goal of defending democratic values and safeguarding the integrity of national security.

As information warfare becomes an increasingly prominent aspect of global security challenges, international cooperation will be essential in mitigating its effects. This partnership between Sweden and the United States is a clear demonstration of the importance both countries place on confronting this growing threat together.

Through this agreement, Sweden and the U.S. reaffirm their commitment to working collaboratively on issues of international security, democratic resilience, and the protection of the free flow of information. The MoU serves as a model for other countries seeking to combat foreign disinformation and influence activities in an interconnected world.