17.07.97 : Studie dagar / Study Days. Staffan Burenstam Linder MEP


Membership in the EU is important and beneficial to Sweden because of its many existing international ties and its highly internationalized economy. Nonetheless, a considerable EU-scepticism is prevalent.

The Swedish entry into the European Union coincided with increasing economic problems. Although these difficulties have been self inflicted, many have come to the conclusion that a highly increased rate of unemployment and demands for budgetary restraints have been direct consequences of EU membership. This is the principal explanation for the negative public opinion of the EU in Sweden.

Enlargement of the EU to include countries in East- and Central Europe is considered a most important development in Sweden. For one thing Sweden would benefit economically from a flourishing Baltic Sea region. But it is also important to Sweden from a security perspective especially given the geographical position of the three Baltic states. While enlargement of the EU proceeds, public opinion in Sweden will become increasingly favorable. It is in this context interesting to note that even Swedish MEPs whose parties advocate a Swedish withdrawal from the EU as a rule vote in favour of measures that facilitate the accession of the formerly communist countries to the EU.

A successful EMU would also contribute to a more positive public opinion in Sweden since it would become clear that Sweden has a lot to gain from joining the monetary union.


Member of the European Parliament
Staffan Burenstam Linder
Tel. +33 3 88 17 58 36

Press officer
Per Heister
Tel. +33 3 88 17 44 83
Mob. +46 705 77 33 00