Country Profile: Sweden
Sweden, located in Northern Europe, is known for its vast landscapes and rich history. With a population of approximately 10.6 million as of 2024, it benefits from a high-income economy characterized by a blend of capitalism and welfare. The nation has been politically stable, maintaining a parliamentary constitutional monarchy since 1523, and is recognized as a leader in innovation and governance. Sweden's commitment to neutrality, having not participated in war for over two centuries, shifted with its recent application to join NATO in 2022.
Geography
Sweden shares borders with Finland and Norway, featuring a diverse terrain of lowlands, forests, and hills. Its total area is 450,295 sq km, encompassing a wealth of natural resources. The climate ranges from temperate in the south to subarctic in the north, influencing the distribution of its population which predominantly resides in southern regions.
- 3,218 km of coastline
- 68.7% of land covered by forests (2022)
- Contains nearly 100,000 lakes, with Vanern being the largest
People and Society
The population of Sweden stands at 10,589,835 as of 2024, predominantly ethnic Swedes, but with a growing percentage of foreign-born residents. The official language is Swedish, and the country has a high urbanization rate of 88.7%. Sweden's society places a strong emphasis on social welfare, education, and healthcare, resulting in a high standard of living.
- 17.1% of the population is aged 0-14 years
- Life expectancy is 82.9 years (2024 est.)
- Urban population growth rate projected at 0.89% (2020-2025)
Economy
As the largest Nordic economy, Sweden has a robust export-driven market. Its GDP in terms of purchasing power parity is estimated at $668.628 billion for 2024, with a per capita GDP of $63,300. The economic landscape is marked by strong sectors in automotive, pharmaceuticals, and technology, supported by significant investments in R&D.
- 65.9% of GDP from services (2024 est.)
- 8.6% unemployment rate expected in 2024
- 55.4% of GDP derived from exports (2023 est.)
Government
Sweden operates under a parliamentary constitutional monarchy, with the King as the head of state and a Prime Minister leading the government. The legislative body, Riksdagen, consists of 349 members elected through proportional representation. Citizens enjoy universal suffrage at the age of 18.
- Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson took office on October 18, 2022
- The capital city is Stockholm, which became significant in the mid-13th century
- Sweden’s Constitution is comprised of four fundamental laws
Military and Security
The Swedish Armed Forces include an Army, Navy, and Air Force, with approximately 25,000 active personnel. The military budget is set at 2.1% of GDP for 2024. Sweden, having shifted from a longstanding policy of military non-alignment, is now a NATO member as of March 2024.
- Plans to increase military personnel to 100,000 by 2030
- Approximately 600 troops deployed in Latvia (NATO, 2025)
- Compulsory military service reinstated in 2018
Energy
Sweden's energy sector is characterized by its high reliance on renewable sources, particularly hydroelectric and wind power. The country has achieved 100% electrification for its population and continues to invest in sustainable energy practices.
- 40.2% of electricity generation from hydropower (2023)
- 55.307 million kW of installed generating capacity (2023)
- 28.6% of total electricity production derived from nuclear energy (2023)
Environment
Environmental issues in Sweden include marine pollution and acid rain. The country actively participates in numerous international agreements aimed at combating climate change and protecting biodiversity.
- 68.7% of land used for forests (2022)
- Reduced carbon dioxide emissions to 43.96 million metric tonnes (2023)
- Sweden has 15 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Transportation
Sweden has a well-developed transportation network, featuring extensive railways, numerous airports, and a significant merchant marine fleet. The transportation system plays a vital role in connecting its rural and urban areas.
- 206 airports projected by 2025
- Total railways measure 10,910 km (2020)
- 92 total ports, including key locations such as Goteborg and Stockholm
Communications
Sweden boasts a high level of internet accessibility, with about 96% of the population using the internet. The nation supports a diverse media landscape with both public and private broadcasting options.
- 14.8 million mobile cellular subscriptions (2023)
- 4.3 million fixed broadband subscriptions (2023)
- Ranked highly for communication infrastructure
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 10,589,835 | 2024 est. |
| Area | 450,295 sq km | Total land area |
| GDP | $668.628 billion | Purchasing power parity (2024 est.) |
| Unemployment rate | 8.6% | 2024 est. |
| Life expectancy at birth | 82.9 years | 2024 est. |
| Birth rate | 10.7 births/1,000 | 2024 est. |
| Energy consumption per capita | 142.102 million Btu/person | 2023 est. |
| Military expenditures | 2.1% of GDP | 2024 est. |
| Urban population | 88.7% | 2023 |
| Internet users | 96% | 2023 est. |
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