International development cooperation

Sweden has a long tradition of generous and ambitious development aid. Development cooperation is about helping to enable poor people to improve their living conditions. Swedish development aid is often channelled through international organisations such as the UN and the EU. Humanitarian assistance refers to Sweden’s activities to save lives, alleviate suffering and maintain the human dignity of those affected by natural disasters, armed conflicts or other similar circumstances.

Responsible for international development cooperation

Responsible minister

Johan Forssell Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade

Responsible ministry

News about international development cooperation

  • Swedish development assistance is effective and generous

    Sweden is one of the world’s most generous donors. It is now raising its ambitions to make its development assistance more focused, relevant, effective and transparent. The focus is on Ukraine, humanitarian support, democracy, climate action, gender equality, trade and migration.

Illustration: The UN

The Global Goals and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development

The Global Goals and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development seek to end poverty and hunger, realise the human rights of all, achieve gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls, and ensure the lasting protection of the planet and its natural resources.

Photo: Frida Drake/Ministry for Foreign Affairs

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine

The Swedish Government’s stance is clear: support to Ukraine, sanctions against Russia and a stronger Sweden. Sweden, the EU and many other countries are standing with Ukraine.

Here you will find information about the Government’s work related to the security situation in Ukraine.

Photo: UN Photo/Tobin Jones

International development cooperation strategies

The strategies govern Sweden’s international development cooperation with and humanitarian assistance to other countries and regions, in thematic areas and with multilateral organisations.

Map over the European Union.
The work of the Council is divided into ten policy areas. Illustration: Government Offices of Sweden

Sweden in the EU

Being a member of the EU means that Sweden has a direct influence on and is directly affected by EU decisions. The Government’s main role in the EU context is to represent Sweden in the European Council and in the Council of the European Union.

Content about international development cooperation

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