Policy areas

Security and Defence

From hard security to hybrid threats and influence operations, Stockholm Free World Forum examines the most pressing issues facing Sweden’s security and defense as a NATO ally. In a new geopolitical era, Sweden has a leading role to play in deepening Nordic-Baltic cooperation, contributing to NATO’s collective security, and supporting Ukraine.  

Democracy and the International Rule of Law

Liberal democracy is under pressure. Authoritarian regimes and anti-democratic movements are challenging fundamental rights and global norms. Stockholm Free World Forum is dedicated to defending liberal democratic values and reinforcing the international rules-based order.

Business and Trade

Free trade and globalization are increasingly contested. As protectionism and economic nationalism gain ground, we advocate for open markets, entrepreneurship, and global economic cooperation—core drivers of prosperity, innovation, and democratic resilience.  

The Future of Europe

The European Union is one of the world’s most successful political projects, but now faces serious internal and external challenges. European cooperation is one of Sweden’s most important tools for international impact. Stockholm Free World Forum works to strengthen Sweden's role in the EU to promote freedom, democracy and our shared values.

Nyheter

New podcast: #72 Who Will Defend Europe? With Jana Puglierin

June 5, 2026
The transatlantic relationship is undergoing its greatest transformation in decades. As Russia’s war against Ukraine continues and the United States increasingly questions its traditional role as Europe’s security guarantor, the question facing ...

The Foreign Affairs Academy 2026 – Third Meeting

June 4, 2026
On 30 May, the third session of the 2026 Foreign Affairs Academy was held. Now in its second decade, this year-long program offers advanced training and networking opportunities for future experts and ...

Roundtable on the deepening partnership between Japan and Europe

June 1, 2026
On May 27th, Frivärld/Stockholm Free World Forum hosted a roundtable on the deepening partnership between Japan and Europe, marking the launch of a new report written by journalist Jojje Olsson on Japan’s ...

New report on Japan’s evolving defense and security politics

May 29, 2026
For a long time, Japan’s defense and security policy was restricted by its post-war constitution. Just as in Europe, Japan was also hoping that China and Russia would develop into more liberal ...

Upcoming report: From ”Mother of All Trade Deals” to Strategic Partnership: The Logic of Indo–European Convergence

May 21, 2026
What is the outlook for international trade in an era of geopolitical uncertainty? What opportunities do new agreements create – and what is required for Europe to stand strong in an increasingly ...

Media

Altinget: Europe needs more global trade – not less, writes Gunnar Hökmark

June 1, 2026
“When authoritarian regimes try to advance their positions, free economies need to bind themselves closer ...

Kyiv Post: What Can Ukraine Learn from Churchill’s Electoral Defeat in 1945?, writes Anders Åslund

May 24, 2026
“Despite deep public appreciation for President Volodymyr Zelensky’s wartime leadership, former Commander-in-Chief General Valerii Zaluzhnyi ...

Kyiv Post: Did May 9 Mark a Turning Point in the War?, writes Anders Åslund

May 11, 2026
“Putin’s May 9 Victory Day parade was a study in weakness: no military hardware, a ...

Altinget: Does Europe dare to continue investing in expanded trade with other democracies?, writes Anna Rennéus Guthrie

May 7, 2026
“In order for the world market of the future to emerge in Europe, we need ...

TV4: Russian spy behind conspiracy theories about Estonia, writes Patrik Oksanen in his new book

April 15, 2026
Frivärld resident senior fellow Patrik Oksanen has, together with Andreas Edevald, written the book ”Den ...

Kyiv Post: Hungarian Election: Ukraine and EU Are Major Winners, Putin and Trump Losers, writes Anders Åslund

April 13, 2026
“Orban’s landslide defeat may augur a sea change in the geopolitical landscape. “Illiberal democracy” has ...

Sveriges Radio: Gunnar Hökmark participates in debate about the war in Iran

April 10, 2026
“It is a war of confusion. Trump has thrown himself into battle with some advisors ...

Kyiv Post: Ukraine Must Thrive on the Global Gas Boom, writes Anders Åslund

April 6, 2026
“Ukraine can no longer afford the level of mismanagement that has strangled its domestic gas ...