30 years of Sweden in the EU

Thirty years ago, Sweden became a proud member of the European Union. Since then, the Nordic country has made remarkable contributions to the Union.

Sweden’s steadfast commitment to democracy, gender equality, social inclusion and fundamental rights embodies the values which remain at the heart of the EU. Free movement has opened Europe to millions of Swedes for work, study and travel. In an increasingly uncertain world, Sweden’s role in EU security strengthens us all.  

The European Union has made Sweden stronger. And our Union has thrived thanks to Sweden.

How Sweden has changed the EU

Sweden has enriched our Single Market and has significantly contributed to and gained from trade ties and investment partnerships with other EU Member States. The country’s export-dependent industry benefits immensely from European integration. Together, we have shown that economic growth can go hand in hand with boosting clean tech and benefiting the climate, thanks to Sweden’s leadership. 

Sweden has championed important environmental causes at the EU-level, leading to greater protection of our climate, environment and biodiversity. With its support, more attention has been brought to the Baltic Sea – its environment and marine life. 

How EU membership has changed Sweden

Success stories

• 
  Investing in infrastructure

  The Öresund Bridge, which connects Sweden and Denmark, is a notable example of European cross-border collaboration. The bridge, constructed between 1995 and 2000, has contributed €8.4 billion to the economies of both countries. Almost half of the project’s €4 billion cost was financed by the European Investment Bank. The Öresund Bridge represents more than just economic benefits: it serves as a vital link for EU citizens, facilitating travel via trains and buses. Around 100,000 people from both Denmark and Sweden cross the bridge every day. 

• 
  Fostering skills through NextGenerationEU

  Through NextGenerationEU funding, Sweden has strengthened social supports and addressed local skills needs, fostering resilience and progress across the country. In many Swedish municipalities, this funding has facilitated a significant skills uplift for over 8,000 care workers in nursing homes. These workers have been able to study part-time while retaining their full salaries, ensuring professional development without personal financial strain.

• 
  Bolstering Swedish agriculture sector

  In these 30 years, EU citizens have enjoyed access to a wider variety of high-quality foods, drinks, and agricultural products from Sweden. Since Sweden joined the EU in 1995, the country has received approximately €24 billion to bolster its agriculture sector. Each year, around 57,000 Swedish farmers benefit from the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy, enabling them to continue their crucial work in producing high-quality, sustainable products.

• 
  Swedish solidarity in action

  Since the establishment of the EU Civil Protection Mechanism in 2001, Sweden has worked closely with other Member States to mobilise emergency relief. In 2018, when Sweden faced unprecedented forest fires, the EU Civil Protection Mechanism facilitated the mobilisation of over 360 firefighters, 60 planes, six helicopters and 67 vehicles to support firefighting efforts. Seven countries came together to assist Sweden, standing together with the Swedish people during this challenging time.

• 
  More educational opportunities for young people

  Young Swedish citizens have enjoyed expanded opportunities to study across the EU. Since 1995, more than 105,000 Swedish higher education students have participated in the Erasmus+ programme. This exchange of knowledge and culture goes both ways. Through Erasmus+, roughly 223,000 EU citizens have also had the chance to pursue higher education in Sweden, enriching academic and cultural connections across Europe.