MANAGING THE DRAGON. A comprehensive analysis of Sweden’s Relationship with China

Abstract

Sweden's relationship with China is an increasingly important topic, with a growing need for a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities characterizing this multi-power relationship. Navigating the complex interplay of economic, military, political, and ideological domains, this thesis examines Sweden's evolving relationship with China using Michael Mann’s IEMP-model. Utilizing expert interviews and policy documents, the study investigates how Sweden has managed its interests in the face of both opportunities and challenges. The research finds that Sweden has adeptly navigated its political and economic interests, despite ideological challenges and increasing significance of military issues. Strategic adaptability is underscored in Sweden's approach, as evidenced by its multilateral engagements and the leveraging of economic relationships for constructive dialogue on human rights. The study also reflects on potential future scenarios based on current trends, emphasizing the likely importance of multilateral collaborations. This thesis provides a comprehensive analysis of Sweden's strategy in maintaining its interests against the backdrop of an evolving geopolitical landscape, offering insights into the complexities of international relations.