International commitment important
The international commitment is one of the most important tasks of the Swedish total defence. International peace support and humanitarian operations are channels through which we help to make the world a safer place.
Security policy developments in Europe since the end of the cold war have led to increased international contacts in the Ministry of Defences field. This applies, not least, to conflict prevention and peace support. Here Sweden plays an active role in the United Nations (UN), the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and the Partnership for Peace (PfP).
International developments over the past year have shown that crises can quickly blow up and have far-reaching consequences. The European Council has resolved that EU member states shall contribute military resources to a common crisis management capability, to be used in different types of humanitarian and peace-keeping actions.
Sweden considers it important to make an active contribution to the EUs ability to manage crises. We are also playing an energetic role in the development of the European Security and Foreign Policy (ESFP).
Sweden is participating in peace-support operations in various parts of the world, including the Balkans, Liberia and Afghanistan. The tasks of military personnel serving in peace-support missions can range from monitoring compliance with peace agreements to clearing mines and supporting relief activities.
The Swedish Rescue Services Agency carries out a large number of humanitarian operations in response to accidents and disasters in other countries. Relief activities include rescuing people in areas hit by earthquakes and floods, transporting equipment needed in disaster areas and helping to build roads and bridges. Sweden can also provide civilian and military personnel to help in the reconstruction of societies affected by wars or disasters.
