Sweden has been a pioneer in embracing digital transformation and AI, implementing various strategic initiatives and frameworks to foster innovation, competitiveness, and societal well-being. The Swedish government, through multiple agencies and collaborations, has developed a robust approach to regulate and promote AI.
The Research Institutes of Sweden (RISE), active since 2016, combines AI research with interdisciplinary projects and innovation hubs acted as a strong base for AI in Sweden. With over 75 AI projects underway, RISE aims to enhance Sweden’s international competitiveness and contribute to a sustainable society through AI-driven solutions. RISE also leads the AI Agenda for Sweden, a collaborative effort to formulate a national roadmap for AI adoption, involving stakeholders from academia, the public sector, and industry.
In 2018, Sweden identified the need for a national approach to AI, aiming to become a global leader in digital transformation. This led to the formulation of a strategic document outlining the country’s priorities in AI development and use. This strategy emphasized the integration of AI across various sectors, ensuring that Sweden harnesses the full potential of AI while maintaining ethical standards and societal benefits.
AI Sweden, established in 2019, serves as a national center for AI research, innovation, and education. Supported by both private initiatives and government agencies, AI Sweden focuses on accelerating applied AI research, fostering industry-academia collaboration, and promoting the responsible use of AI. The center aims to create a dynamic environment that attracts international researchers and supports the development of secure and unbiased AI tools.
The Swedish Public Employment Service, the Swedish Companies Registration Office, the Swedish Agency for Digital Government, and the Swedish Tax Agency were tasked in 2021 with enhancing public administration’s capability to use AI. This initiative aimed to strengthen Sweden’s welfare system and competitiveness by leveraging AI to improve public services and operational efficiency.
The Swedish government continues to advance its digital ambitions with the upcoming Swedish Digitalisation Strategy, set to begin in 2024. This strategy will integrate AI as a horizontal objective, focusing on the digitalization of businesses, public administration, and the welfare system, along with improving connectivity and digital skills across the country.
To further bolster its AI capabilities, Sweden appointed an AI Commission in 2024. The commission’s mandate includes analyzing the conditions for AI education, promoting competitive and secure AI within the EU and globally, and proposing measures to attract risk capital and facilitate innovation. The commission will also explore how AI can enhance public administration efficiency and bolster national security.
Sweden’s proactive stance on AI regulation and promotion underscores its commitment to leveraging AI for economic growth, societal benefits, and global leadership in digital transformation. By integrating AI into various sectors and fostering a collaborative approach, Sweden aims to create a sustainable and inclusive digital future.