The Arms Control Primer Better know a non-nuke: Sweden
Oct 30, 2025
Dr. Emma Rosengren, a researcher focused on Swedish nuclear policy, and Dr. Thomas Jonter, an expert in international relations and disarmament, dive deep into Sweden's Cold War nuclear ambitions. They discuss the initial motivations to deter the Soviet Union, the dual-use approach of its nuclear program, and the domestic debates that shaped public opinion. The conversation also covers Sweden's pivotal role in disarmament talks and the impact of its historical non-alignment on current NATO discussions, especially in light of recent geopolitical tensions.
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Dual-Use Program Reached Latency
- Sweden developed a dual-use nuclear program after WWII and reached technical capability by the mid-1950s.
- The program was embedded in civilian nuclear power efforts, enabling rapid weaponization if chosen.
Neutrality Drove Nuclear Consideration
- Political leaders and the military argued nuclear arms were needed to defend Sweden's neutrality.
- Nuclear capability was framed as essential to preserve non-alignment against the Soviet threat.
Civil Society Led Opposition
- Social Democratic women's groups, trade unions, churches, and peace groups strongly opposed nuclear acquisition.
- These domestic actors produced diverse arguments that shaped public resistance.
