Sweden to reduce foreign aid budget in autumn proposal

The proposed reduction in foreign aid is part of the upcoming autumn budget proposal, set to be presented in full on Thursday. The annual aid budget will decrease from 56 billion SEK in 2023-2025 to 53 billion SEK for the years 2026-2028. Benjamin Dousa stated, “We are currently undergoing a restructuring focused on efficiency and ensuring that funds go to those in need.” However, he did not specify which areas of aid would see the largest cuts, indicating that details on prioritization will be provided later, as this change is planned for the future.

The advance notice has been given to allow agencies like Sida to adjust their operations accordingly. Dousa emphasized the reduction was influenced by various challenges currently facing Sweden as a nation. He stated, “A government’s primary obligation is toward its own citizens. We maintain a sizable aid budget despite significant investment needs domestically. This effectively means there are more funds available for police, defense, and welfare services here in Sweden.”

The government and the Swedish Democrats have expressed their intent to reform the aid program, having previously agreed to abandon the target of allocating 1% of Gross National Income (GNI) for foreign assistance. Dousa remarked on the peculiar arrangement that saw the aid budget increase consistently without sufficient oversight or prioritization. When asked about reaching consensus among coalition parties on the new framework, he acknowledged the diversity of perspectives but affirmed, “We have agreed on this and I believe we can and must make some tough prioritizations.” Dousa assured that Ukraine will remain the largest recipient of Swedish aid.