This podcast discusses the funding and effectiveness of the United Nations, the concept of the Swedish model and its challenges, and the politics of inflation in Sweden. Entertaining and informative!
35:09
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Quick takeaways
The United Nations plays a crucial role in addressing global crises, providing humanitarian aid, and promoting peace through peacekeeping operations.
The Swedish model of governance shifted away from socialism in the 1990s due to economic changes, leading to market-oriented policies and a rise in inequality.
Deep dives
The Role and Function of the United Nations
The United Nations (UN) serves as a global forum for discussion and debate among its 193 member states. While it may not always function smoothly, the UN plays a crucial role in addressing global crises, providing humanitarian aid, and promoting peace through its peacekeeping operations. It relies on assessed contributions from member states, with the United States being the largest contributor, followed by China. The UN's budget, though relatively small compared to global GDP, is essential for its operations and the important work it does around the world.
The Economics of the Swedish Model
The Swedish model of governance, often associated with socialism, emerged during the mid-20th century when the Social Democratic Party dominated Swedish politics. It created a cradle-to-grave welfare state, focused on equality, and provided significant social protections. However, economic changes, such as a real estate crisis and the pressure of globalization, led to a shift away from the Swedish model in the 1990s. The country embraced market-oriented policies, changed the tax system, and witnessed a rise in inequality. While the Swedish welfare state still exists, the dynamics of achieving redistribution have changed.
The Impact of Migration on Swedish Society
Sweden has experienced a significant increase in immigration, transforming its homogenous society into a more diverse one. While mass migration does not directly explain the disintegration of the Swedish welfare state, it has influenced the political landscape. The rise of the Sweden Democrats, a nativist and anti-immigrant party, reflects some of the tensions associated with this demographic shift. The relationship between diversity and redistribution is complex, with diverse societies facing challenges in achieving broad-based redistributive policies, especially when inequality aligns with racial, ethnic, or religious differences.
Sweden's Export-Led Economy and Cultural Norms
Sweden is known for its export-oriented economy, with companies like Ericsson playing a significant role in global industries. Unlike Germany, Sweden maintains its competitiveness through a different approach: regular currency devaluation, allowing for a flexible exchange rate. This strategy supports their export competitiveness. However, it also poses challenges related to inflation. Sweden's cultural norm, called the law of Yanta, encourages fitting in, discouraging individuals from expressing personal success or individuality openly. While this norm may contribute to a collective mindset, it does not eliminate underlying wealth inequality in the country.
This week, Adam and Cameron talk about the United Nations, which operates on an annual budget of $3.4 billion. The money is provided by member states but what does it buy them?
