Sweden's vision and policies for development co-operation

Sweden’s Policy for Global Development continues to provide a strong foundation for its development co-operation system. Sweden has maintained its focus on poverty reduction and its three thematic priorities identified in 2007: 1) democracy and human rights 2) environment and climate change and 3) gender equality and the role of women in development. However, it has a large number of additional priorities, each with their own policies and strategic documents which contribute to layers of complexity. Sweden recognises this weakness in its system and is striving to replace the “forest of policies” highlighted in its last peer review with a clearer policy vision and results-oriented strategies. Until it does so there will be uncertainty about Sweden’s future direction, with consequences for its partnerships and programmes.