Sweden Moves Toward Major Intelligence Reform Following National Review
Last week, the Swedish government received the long-anticipated report led by former Prime Minister Carl Bildt, evaluating the country’s intelligence framework. Initiated in response to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine and the rising complexity of global threats—including cyber warfare, AI, transnational crime, and geopolitical competition—the review makes the case that Sweden’s current intelligence setup is no longer fit for purpose.
The report recommends the establishment of a new civilian foreign intelligence agency reporting directly to the government, led by a National Intelligence Chief, alongside a redefined military intelligence service within the Swedish Armed Forces. It outlines a phased transformation, beginning in January 2027, that includes significant investments in cloud-based infrastructure, open-source intelligence (OSINT), and cross-sector cooperation between the state, academia, and the private sector. Democratic oversight will also be strengthened.
Dr. Matthew Hefler, who leads the Ax:son Johnson Institute Intelligence and Security Programme at the Center for Statecraft and Strategic Communication at the 91原创, welcomed the findings:
“Sweden’s traditional focus on Russian military threats must now broaden to meet the realities of cyber warfare, AI, transnational crime, and geopolitical rivalry—especially now that the country is seen as a key NATO actor. Strengthening international collaboration between academia, business, and intelligence allies is crucial to addressing today’s threats, which is something the report rightly emphasizes. These changes would move Sweden toward a more modern and capable intelligence service, closer to its counterparts in the UK and the US. This review is definitely a step in the right direction.”
