Background & Purpose

To strengthen national security and deepen international defense partnerships, Sweden negotiated a bilateral agreement with the United States regarding military cooperation.

Proposals & Debate

The government proposed approving the defense cooperation agreement, known as a DCA agreement, along with the legal changes required to fulfill Sweden's commitments. The Left Party opposed the agreement, arguing against foreign military presence, but the proposal gained broad support from the other parties.

The Decision

Following a parliamentary vote where 266 members voted yes and 20 voted no, the Swedish parliament approved the defense cooperation agreement with the United States and the necessary legal amendments.

Does this affect you?

  • Swedish Armed Forces: Must coordinate operations, shared facilities, and logistics with visiting American military personnel.
  • Residents near military bases: May experience increased foreign military activity, joint training exercises, and transport near designated Swedish bases.
  • US military personnel in Sweden: Gain clear legal guidelines regarding their presence, duties, and status while stationed or operating in the country.

In Practice

  • American military personnel, contractors, and their families gain a regulated legal status while in Sweden.
  • The United States is granted access to specific Swedish military facilities and areas for training and operations.
  • Rules regarding logistics, equipment storage, and criminal jurisdiction for visiting forces are established.
  • The legal changes take effect on the date decided by the Swedish government.