Managing the Risk of Periphery: Sweden and the Future of the EU

Abstract

Centripetal and centrifugal forces are simultaneously operating within the EU. While the eurozone states have tighter cooperation, several non-eurozone states are pondering what position to take in this new context. The Swedish aim has been to minimise divisions within the Union while simultaneously being loyal to the efforts made by the eurozone to save the currency. Furthermore, there is a considerable degree of hesitancy towards delegating authority to the European level over issues closely related to sovereignty. In sum, this calls for quite a delicate balancing act.