Background & Purpose
Sweden wants to protect its national security by preventing foreign powers from gaining unwanted control over important technology, information, or strategic properties.
Proposals & Debate
The government proposed a new system where a special authority can review and, if needed, block foreign direct investments in Swedish companies vital for security. It also suggested giving intelligence services in the UK and Switzerland direct access to certain personal data to help stop terror attacks.
The Decision
The Swedish Parliament approved the government's proposal, meaning new rules will be put in place to screen foreign investments and allow international intelligence agencies access to specific personal data.
Does this affect you?
- Swedish companies with security-sensitive operations: Their foreign investment deals will now be reviewed and could be blocked if deemed a security risk.
- Foreign investors: They must now get approval for certain investments in Sweden that affect national security.
- Swedish intelligence services: They gain new tools to protect national security by reviewing foreign investments.
- Individuals: Their personal data may be accessed by UK and Swiss intelligence services under specific conditions to prevent terrorism.
In Practice
- A new Swedish authority will check foreign investments in companies important for national security.
- This authority can stop investments if they pose a risk to Sweden's security interests.
- UK and Swiss intelligence services will get direct access to certain personal data.
- This data access is specifically for preventing terrorist attacks and other terror-related crimes.