SHARED FUTURES IN FOCUS
Sweden and Serbia strengthen cooperation through innovation, sustainability, and cultural exchange
In one of her first interviews since assuming her post in Serbia, H.E. Charlotte Sammelin, Sweden’s Ambassador to Serbia, shares insights at a time when bilateral ties between the two countries are thriving. With growing business cooperation and vibrant cultural exchange, her words shed light on a partnership marked by mutual respect, shared values, and forward-looking initiatives.
How would you assess the current state of bilateral relations between Sweden and Serbia, and in which areas do you see the greatest potential for further development?
I am pleased to highlight the positive and steadily developing relationship between our two countries. Sweden has been a long-standing partner of Serbia, supporting its reform efforts and development priorities for over two decades.
Since 2000, Sweden has provided over 300 million euros in development assistance to Serbia. This support has focused on areas such as democratic governance, human rights, gender equality, environmental protection, and Serbia’s alignment with EU standards. In 2024 alone, Sweden contributed
approximately 13.2 million euros, making us one of Serbia’s largest bilateral donors, particularly in the environment and climate sectors.
Our economic ties are also growing. Trade between Sweden and Serbia has increased steadily, and today, approximately 200 Swedish and SwedishSerbian companies operate in Serbia, employing nearly 10,000 people. These include well-known names such as IKEA, Tetra Pak, Securitas, Ericsson, SKF, Volvo Group and H&M. Their presence reflects a strong interest in Serbia’s market and contributes to local economic development.
SINCE 2000, SWEDEN HAS PROVIDED OVER 300 MILLION EUROS IN
DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE TO SERBIA
We also value the contribution of the Serbian diaspora in Sweden, which numbers over 130,000 people. This community plays a vital role in connecting our societies and enriching both cultures.
Looking ahead, we see continued potential for cooperation in areas such as sustainable development,
H.E. CHARLOTTE SAMMELIN Ambassador of Sweden to Serbia
innovation, and regional collaboration. Sweden is committed to working with Serbia in these fields, building on our shared interests and long-standing partnership.
Sweden has consistently supported EU enlargement. In what ways is your country currently supporting Serbia’s path to EU membership, and what key steps remain for Serbia to take?
The latest poll in Sweden shows firm support for expanding the EU. Depending on the candidate country, the support for Swedish citizens ranges from 70% to 91%. My government emphasises the importance of a merit-based approach. Candidate countries must implement the necessary reforms, particularly in fundamental values, which are at the core of EU membership. This is true for all candidate countries.
In Serbia’s case, it is our view that there has been an overall lack of reforms, particularly in the area of fundamental reforms. Occasionally, you will hear about the process being not merit-based and purely political; we don´t subscribe to that notion.
Regarding our support to assist Serbia on its path to joining the EU, Sweden assists civil society and state institutions in carrying out the necessary reforms. We have achieved excellent results in certain areas, including environmental sustainability and progress in gender equality. We believe that it is a significant contribution to the development of Serbian institutions and democracy.
Green development is a key priority in Sweden’s foreign policy. How would you evaluate the cooperation between Sweden and Serbia in environmental protection and climate change mitigation?
Sweden and Serbia have a productive and long-standing cooperation around environmental protection and climate mitigation. Our various projects support the Ministry of Environmental Protection in their reforms to meet the requirements of Chapter 27 in the EU acquis, with a particular focus on reducing industrial pollution and protecting the natural environment. As a partner and donor to the EU 4 Green Agenda in Serbia project, implemented by the UNDP, we are actively supporting Serbia in addressing all five pillars of the Green Agenda, from decarbonisation to circular economy and from reducing pollution to nature protection.
One notable example of support related to climate mitigation, announced on World International Biodiversity Day this year, is the USD 600,000 that Sweden is providing to public enterprises and civil society organisations selected through a public call to implement seven innovative solutions to protect, revitalise, and conserve wetlands in nine protected areas in Serbia. The implementation of these creative solutions, utilising nature-based approaches, will help restore the natural balance in wetland ecosystems, preserve biodiversity, improve water quality, and mitigate the adverse effects of
NEGOTIATIONS TOWARDS EU MEMBERSHIP ARE NOT JUST A TICK-THE-BOX EXERCISE. IT IS A TRANSFORMATIVE PROCESS FOR SOCIETY
climate change, such as droughts, floods, and the spread of invasive species in wetlands across Serbia.
Sustainable development and digital transformation are among Sweden’s key priorities. What joint projects or initiatives currently exist with Serbia in these areas?
That’s right! Sweden is contributing to the digital transition that is underway in Serbia through our development cooperation projects. Digital tools and technology are being used in development work to ensure that everyone can participate, feel safe, and have their rights respected. By using digital solutions, we support sustainable progress in all areas of development. Let me give you two notable examples:
Firstly, through NALED, Sweden has supported improvements in the transparency and efficiency of the Serbian public procurement system by
WE’RE TRULY ENCOURAGED BY THE INTEREST MANY YOUNG PEOPLE IN SERBIA SHOW IN SWEDISH VALUES AND LIFESTYLE
promoting digital solutions like the e-Portal for Public Procurement, the Registry of Bidders, and the e-Learning platform. Another successful example of Sweden’s contribution to digital transformation is the longstanding support provided to the Republic Geodetic Authority. These efforts have contributed to the modernisation of Serbia’s public procurement system, making it more efficient, transparent, and accessible to both local and international participants.
Secondly, Sweden’s support to the Republic Geodetic Authority, in partnership with its Swedish counterpart, “Lantmäteriet”, enables the development and piloting of the national spatial and urban planning information system, called ePlan. The project contributes to the implementation of the overall eSpace reform by reforming and digitising spatial and urban planning, including the legal regimes for land use, as one of the key public domains for sustainable development in Serbia.
We are witnessing an increase in international cooperation in science and technology as a response to global challenges. Are there plans to strengthen collaboration between Swedish and Serbian institutions in research and innovation?
Sweden places high importance on international cooperation in science and innovation, especially in addressing shared global challenges. Strengthening ties between Swedish and Serbian institutions is a priority, particularly in areas such as green technologies, digital transformation, and sustainable development.
Serbia’s participation in EU programs, such as Horizon Europe, has facilitated fruitful partnerships with Swedish institutions in fields like information and communication technology (ICT) and energy. Programs like the Swedish Research Links have also supported joint research and academic exchange.
A notable example is the collaboration between the Science and Technology Park in Novi Sad and Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg, which focuses on innovation, entrepreneurship, and applied research. Additionally, universities such as the University of Belgrade and the KTH Royal Institute of Technology have active partnerships, and many Serbian researchers are engaged in Swedish institutions, particularly in the fields of environmental sciences, biomedicine, and engineering.
These collaborations not only advance research but also foster long-term institutional relationships and knowledge exchange. We are committed to supporting and expanding such initiatives in the years ahead.
From Sweden’s perspective, how do you view the current political situation in Serbia, especially in light of developments concerning democratic processes and the rule of law?
The tragic accident in Novi Sad last November and the subsequent student protests sparked a broad engagement across Serbia. It sparked a crucial discussion about the future of Serbian society. I have noticed that the students’ demands regarding the functioning of Serbian institutions are aligned with the EU integration process. The question now is what the wider repercussions will be on society and politics. At the core lies a decision about which path Serbia should take.
From our side, we firmly believe that Serbia´s place is in the EU. The EU and Serbia have historic and strong economic relationship and close cooperation between our businesses. Serbian students enjoy participation in extensive academic exchange programs. Moreover, the Serbian diaspora contributes to deepening the relationship.
The momentum for EU accession must be used. However, negotiations towards EU membership are not just a tick-the-box exercise. It is a transformative process for society, and the path to get there requires not only enacting new laws. The entire society needs to participate in this process.
A more inclusive, less polarised process would be to the benefit of the Serbian society. My government is concerned about the space for civil society and independent media to work. The pressure on different vital actors in civil society and academia conflicts with the overarching purpose of EU membership.
Swedish values and lifestyle inspire many young people in Serbia. Is the Embassy planning any new cultural or educational programs to deepen the connection between our citizens, particularly the youth? We’re truly encouraged by the interest many young people in Serbia show in Swedish values and lifestyle. Strengthening these connections—especially with youth—is a priority for the Embassy, and we’re actively engaged in cultural and educational initiatives to support that.
One inspiring example is the growing number of Serbian students studying the Swedish language and culture at the University of Belgrade. Their enthusiasm reflects a genuine curiosity about Sweden and a desire to build bridges between our societies.
We continue to promote Swedish literature. Sweden recently participated in the inaugural Thriller Fest in Belgrade, featuring authors Arne Dahl and Malin Stehn. Later this month, Sara Stridsberg will join the Krokodil Literature Festival, and in October, Sweden will present contemporary literature at the Belgrade Book Fair.
Youth engagement is further supported through initiatives like the Young Courage Award, which celebrates young people who show moral courage in their communities. Serbia has a winner again this year—one of ten globally—who will be honoured on Raoul Wallenberg Day in Stockholm this August.
Through these efforts, we aim to foster dialogue and shared values, grounded in the belief that all people are equally valuable and entitled to the same rights—a principle at the heart of Swedish society.
As a country known for its strong culture of dialogue and equality, how is Sweden promoting inclusiveness, gender equality, and civil society development through its projects in Serbia?
As a country that deeply values equality, dialogue, and inclusion, we are proud to support these principles through our work in Serbia, especially in partnership with local communities and civil society.
Through our development cooperation, we’re working closely with Serbian institutions and organisations to promote gender equality, empower youth, and strengthen democratic participation. For example, we’ve supported the development of Serbia’s Gender Equality Law and continue to work with municipalities to help make equality a reality in everyday life.
We’re also proud to support civil society organisations that give voice to citizens, promote transparency, and defend human rights. One project that’s especially close to our hearts is the Young Courage Award, which celebrates young people who show moral courage in their communities—something we believe is more critical than ever.
Beyond policies and programs, we also value the importance of fostering meaningful exchanges—whether through literature, education, or shared experiences—that help strengthen understanding and connection between people.
These are not just Swedish priorities—they are universal ones. We’re honoured to work alongside our Serbian partners to bring their vision to life.
SWEDEN’S NATIONAL DAY
CELEBRATED WITH ELEGANCE
IN BELGRADE
The National Day of Sweden was marked in Belgrade on 5th June 2025, with a formal reception at the White Palace, organised by the Swedish Embassy in Serbia.
Sweden’s national day, also known as Flag Day, is celebrated annually on June 6. The national day is celebrated in honour of the day when Gustav Vasa was elected king of Sweden in 1523.
The guests were welcomed with a speech by H.E. Charlotte Sammelin, which emphasised that Serbia and Sweden, together, are part of a larger European family and that the values and interests of our peoples are reflected and represented in the EU. Among the guests were members of the diplomatic corps, officials of the Serbian government and other friends and partners of the embassy.
DARKNESS BENEATH THE ORDINARY
A look into the quiet fears, cold landscapes, and the psychological depths that shape Scandinavian thrillers today
MALIN STEHN Swedish writer
ORDINARY PEOPLE ACT IN DESPAIR — THAT’S THE STORY
Swedish author Malin Stehn, known for her psychologically layered thrillers rooted in everyday anxieties, spoke to her Serbian colleague and fellow crime writer Lazar Jovanović on the occasion of her participation at Belgrade Thrillerfest. In their conversation, she reflects on the thin line between reality and fiction, the global pull of Scandinavian noir, and why ordinary people in extraordinary situations remain at the heart of her storytelling.
To what extent is your fiction rooted in real events or people? At what point does reality give way to imagination in your novels? Usually, my ideas for my thrillers come from my own worries. I realise that I worry a lot, and I’ve always been a worrier. So I use my worries and then my imagination. Often, I combine my own worries with maybe something that I see in the newspaper. For Happy New Year, for example, the idea came when I was at a New Year’s party. And my daughter, it was her first time celebrating without me. And I was worried, and I started to think what could happen. And so thoughts were spinning. The first book was about, you could say, one theme in Happy New Year. Which is parents not really taking care of their kids. Or maybe they try, but they don’t always succeed. And for my second novel, I wanted to switch. So it’s about a parent loving her child too much, maybe. I know you can’t love your child too much, but she has set all her hopes on one of her kids. And expectations, and when something happens to this kid and his soccer career. She is devastated, and she blames his friend. And there is a break-up between two families, and so on. And I was a soccer mom, so it’s a bit of my own thoughts. But of course, I switched them up a bit. I hope I wasn’t that much over the top. So it’s a mix of reality and imagination.
Do you follow a particular writing routine, and how do you go about structuring the novel? Are you more of a meticulous planner, or do you prefer to let the story take its own course?
I usually know the start and the end, sort of. Not in detail, but sort of. Because I realise that if I don’t know the ending, it is often that you go out and write stuff that you need to edit hard. So if you have a plan forward, it’s easier. You have to edit anyway, but I like to have a rough plan for my writing. But most of the story and new details come during writing.
How do you explain the global appeal of Scandinavian thrillers? What sets them apart from others in the genre?
I think maybe the fact that they are not just entertainment. That we often describe society in an open and critical way. We find things in society, to, I mean, it can be social issues or environmental issues. Well, many things in society that you can go into and dig into. I think maybe that’s why. And maybe it’s also because we have this natural melancholy. It’s a bit, maybe it’s the weather or the long, dark winters, I don’t know. Anyways, the stories get us all. Yeah, yeah.
With so many established voices in the field, how difficult is it to carve out your own space in the Scandinavian noir genre? It’s hard. I believe that 423 crime novels were published in Sweden alone last year. So it’s hard to be heard in all this noise. But I think,
ABOUT THE INTERVIEW AUTHOR LAZAR JOVANOVIĆ
Lazar Jovanović is a Serbian writer and police inspector, born in 1992 in Kraljevo. He is the author of the novels Šifra Rajs and Gavranov paradoks, known for blending his professional experience in law enforcement with literary craft. His works explore mysteries that connect the past and the present, often illuminated through the lens of historical enigmas and political intrigue.
A master of words and dedicated to writing in its broadest form, Jovanović has also made his mark in journalism – for Diplomacy&Commerce magazine, he conducted exclusive interviews with Swedish thriller authors Arne Dahl and Malin Stehn, on the occasion of their visit to Belgrade for the first Belgrade Thrillerfest, held with the support of the Embassy of Sweden.
I
WORRY A LOT — AND THEN I IMAGINE
from the beginning, I didn’t think much about that. I have just written the story I wanted to write. And it was a story about ordinary people finding themselves in extraordinary situations and acting in despair, and what happens. So it’s more character-based. I didn’t want to write about superheroes or policemen who can do anything. I wanted to write about ordinary people. No, no, no.
When we spoke about writing about real people and real events, do you think that when you write about something real and from reality, does it represent more of a challenge, or does it make it easier for the writer to write about something they know about?
When we spoke about writing about real people and real events, do you think that when you write about something real and from reality, does it represent more of a challenge, or does it make it easier for the writer to write about something they know about?
For me, it’s easier. I mean, then I think it’s... I mean, even though you write about a person who is working with rocket science, or if he’s a teacher, we are still human beings and we act alike, I think. As I write extensively about human psychology and how we act and react, I think that’s not necessarily difficult.
The only thing is that I need to do research about rocket science. Yes, not about people so much. But I think as I write about human beings and their relations, well, and that’s what’s interesting to me.
So, well, I think it’s... I wouldn’t... No, I don’t know. What was the question? It was if... If writing about real events is more of a challenge, or is it... Because, of course, nothing of what I write about has happened in real life. I mean, it is my imagination, but, of course, it’s a bit from real life. But it’s not true crime, it’s fiction.
No, of course, of course. More relating to people, for example, if you’re making a character that is someone you know, do you feel responsible towards making this person exactly as this person is in real life?
Yeah, I never write about people I know. Never, actually. I take bits and pieces of different people. And sometimes, of course, I can have one person in mind from the beginning, but then in the end it becomes a new person, the person in my book. So, no, I would never write about people I know.
SECRETS OF THE NORTHERN FILES
Uncovering hidden patterns in a world where fiction meets reality
ARNE DAHL Swedish writer Arne Dahl and Lazar Jovanović
by Lazar Jovanović
THERE ARE SNAKES ALSO IN THIS SO-CALLED PARADISE
Swedish crime fiction author Arne Dahl visited Belgrade as a guest of the first Belgrade Thrillerfest, held with the support of the Embassy of Sweden. In this exclusive interview for Diplomacy&Commerce, conducted by Serbian writer and police inspector Lazar Jovanović, Dahl reflects on the evolution of Scandinavian thrillers, the fine line between reality and imagination, and the emotional cost of parting with beloved characters.
To what extent is your fiction rooted in real events or people? At what point does reality give way to imagination in your novels?
Yeah, it’s a good question, because I try to always have the first flashes of inspiration from reality, from something grounding the story, because I know it’s going to be a little bit unrealistic, because nothing can be realistic, really, in this thriller world. It’s an imaginative, fairytale-like storytelling.
Still, you base it in reality, and you make it as credible and as believable as possible.
So, I usually look at what’s happening in the world or Sweden, or whatever, and try to turn it into an exciting story. It’s based on, in reality, being more than just entertainment, which is the main thing, after all, but also perhaps to awaken some thoughts.
Do you follow a particular writing routine, and how do you go about structuring a novel? Are you a meticulous planner, or do you prefer to let the story take its course?
There are more people involved, more storylines, more threads, and more themes. Then you have to plan it pretty hard. Still, there’s always room for freedom. There’s always room for creative writing, so to speak. I’m never worried that I over-plan things, because I know it’s going to be free. But it’s a way to start a story.
I know where it’s going, I know... And then the road to where it’s going could change along the way. In this Serbian-translated series about Bergen and Bloom, it’s a bit less thoroughly planned than earlier books. So, I focus on a few twists and turns, you know. Little surprises, you may say, along the way, where everything is turned upside down. I have four or five of those, and then I move between them. And at the same time, increase tension and excitement along the way.
How do you explain the global appeal of Scandinavian thrillers? What sets them apart from others in the genre?
The explanation is perhaps that nobody believed that there would be Swedish or Scandinavian crime fiction, because the idea is that we’re such a peaceful part of the world and a little bit isolated up there with the icebergs. But we have our problems as well, and maybe that’s kind of part of the interest, that there are snakes also in this socalled paradise up there. And that could be an explanation.
We have had the big American tradition, which is more along the hard-boiled kind of writing, and the English, which is more of the mystery-solving things, basically. And then we haven’t had so much more. So when the Nordic noir came, it was a bit of a surprise, I think.
And it started in the 60s, really, but it never became big. Later, we had Henning Mankell in the 90s, not very big either. I don’t think you know him, for example. But then there was a bigger wave,
EVERYTHING GETS TURNED UPSIDE DOWN ALONG THE WAY
and I was part of the first... I made my debut in 1998 as a crime fiction director. So I’ve been doing it for a while, and it was interesting to see how it exploded from there. And now it’s too much, simply.
I heard you in the Slavic-Balkan region, Serbia, Croatia, etc., where there are about 30 books of thriller crime fiction published a year. And in Sweden it’s 500. It’s absurd.
Connecting to that, with so many established voices in the field, how difficult is it to carve out your own space in Scandinavian crime fiction?
I suppose I was lucky in the timing a little bit, because there were not so many who had their niches, that’s all. So there was a place for me, I don’t know, maybe I’m a little bit more literary than most thriller writers, so I come from writing other kinds of serious literature. So it’s with me all the time that it has to be a good one, I have to write this well, I have to have some kind of deep thought somewhere at least.
And I suppose that was my small niche in the world of thrillers, and it’s been like that since then. Now, especially in Sweden, with this inflation, super inflation, it’s very difficult to be young and find a job, which is interesting. If you can pass through this eye of the needle, then you probably are a good writer.
But I think the Swedish and Scandinavian crime fiction boom is over; it’s peaked. It’s going down perhaps, but now it’s more about individual writers and not about the concept of Scandinavian crime fiction.
To end with this question concerning your... You’ve published the last sequel of the Berger and Bloom series. How emotionally attached do you become to your characters? And is it difficult to part with them now that the series is over?
In the beginning, I thought about the one called, I think, it’s called Pustos or something, the first one. Yeah, the first one. It was supposed to be a standalone. I thought it’s time for me to not write in a series, but a standalone. And then I sort of fell in love with both of these characters and their peculiarities. And I thought, now the story isn’t finished yet. I’ll make it a trilogy, so now it’s going to be three books. And then after three books, there are a couple of books more in there. And in the end, as the story is told now, they have sort of landed in a reasonably good place. It was a kind of natural ending to it. There was some kind of happy ending after all. The story needs to end somewhere. So I thought, five books, that’s probably what this story is. It’s a five-book thing.
SWEDEN – THE LAND OF BALANCE AND QUIET ELEGANCE
Design, Nature, and Heritage in the IKEA STOCKHOLM 2025 Collection
In a world where speed and overcrowding have become the norm, Sweden reminds us of the values of simplicity, silence, and balance.
This Nordic country, known for its rich nature, inclusivity, and functional mindset, has inspired the world for decades.
In Sweden, nature and humanity exist in harmony. Summers are spent on the archipelago islands, while winters cherish the warmth of home. In a country where access to nature is legally guaranteed – through the principle of allemansrätten – people are devoted to deep sense of simplicity, sustainability and connection to the environment.
Out of these very values, Swedish design has evolved. And that’s why it’s not just about aesthetics – it’s a philosophy of life.
SCANDINAVIAN DESIGN: MORE THAN JUST BEAUTIFUL FURNITURE
Lagom – not too much, not too little – is at the core of Scandinavian aesthetics. Swedish design combines functionality with beauty, practicality with a sense of warmth. It is discreet, unobtrusive, yet profoundly present in everyday life.
This kind of design IKEA tries to bring into homes worldwide. The story of this brand started over 80 years ago, in the small Swedish town of Älmhult, where the IKEA museum still stands, where global campaigns are created, and new products are developed and tested. The founder, Ingvar Kamprad, was known for his simple ways of life – traveling economy class, driving an old Volvo, and believing in the power of modesty.
Kamprad used to say: “Design should not be a luxury.” And this idea of “good design for everyone” has shaped IKEA’s philosophy and the way we think about our own homes. Building on this belief, IKEA has spent decades successfully democratizing design – making it accessible, functional, sustainable, and high-quality.
THE STOCKHOLM COLLECTION: 40 YEARS OF QUIET ELEGANCE
Marking the 40th anniversary of its iconic STOCKHOLM collection, IKEA has unveiled its newest and largest edition yet. STOCKHOLM 2025 features 96 carefully crafted pieces, from sofas and rugs to ceramic tableware. It epitomizes the Swedish way of life: gentle with nature, thoughtful, yet warm and cozy.
CRAFTSMANSHIP, NATURE, AND EMOTION
Every detail of the collection reflects respect for craftsmanship and natural materials – solid wood, rattan, ceramics, and wool. Traditional techniques and hand-finishing have resulted in durable and beautiful design pieces that stand the test of time and age with grace. Shapes and textures echo Swedish landscapes: islands, forests, silences. The tones are restrained yet rich – ranging from the fresh greens of spring to the muted grays of winter light. Motifs and patterns on certain items reflect the changing seasons in Sweden.
This harmonious vision was brought to life by three Swedish designers –Ola Wihlborg, Nike Karlsson, and Paulin Machado – who joined forces to create a collection in which all elements harmoniously complement each other yet can also stand out on their own.
MORE THAN INTERIORS: A SPACE FOR SMALL RITUALS
In Sweden, the concept of fika – a pause for coffee and conversation, a moment for connection and rest – is cherished. STOCKHOLM 2025 is made to create spaces where we can nurture ourselves and those we love. Whether it’s enjoying a quiet cup of tea by the window or sharing a moment with family after dinner, these pieces don’t dominate the room – they gently enhance it. Sense of calm and warmth is embodied in the collection’s sofas, designed to invite relaxation. Ola Wihlborg’s modular sofa is available in four colors, while another model, made of solid pine wood and natural fibers, designed by Nike Karlsson, adds a touch of natural elegance. Complementing these are hand-blown glass vases, porcelain tableware, chandeliers inspired by retro aesthetics, and linen fabrics – all of which bring the character of craftsmanship into the home. Each item reflects a commitment to quality and authenticity contributing to the harmony of the space.
NATURAL SIMPLICITY AND SUSTAINABILITY
Sweden has long embraced sustainability as a fundamental value. It is an everyday practice – from recycling and cycling to energy-efficient homes and laws protecting nature – everything is aligned with harmony with the environment. In a society that believes in shared responsibility for preserving natural resources, design is created to endure.
That is why STOCKHOLM 2025 places special emphasis on longevity and quality. The high-quality materials chosen for the collection are those that grow more beautiful with age.
These values are reflected not only in IKEA’s products, but also in the way the company operates – through a business model rooted in circularity, renewable energy, and responsible sourcing.
DESIGN WITH A PURPOSE
The STOCKHOLM 2025 collection invites us to reflect on what we truly seek in our spaces. As Karin Gustavsson, who led the creative team behind this collection at IKEA of Sweden, put it: “We worked to create a collection where every piece tells its own story.” And that story, much like Sweden itself, is simple – yet lingers with quiet strength.
Ultimately, STOCKHOLM 2025 captures the essence of IKEA’s vision: to create a better everyday life for the many people – not just through furniture, but through spaces that support who we are and how we live.
FROM TARA TO OBEDSKA BARA
Sweden backs wetland preservation efforts across Serbia
Thanks to Sweden’s financial support totalling 600,000 USD, public enterprises and civil society organisations in Serbia will implement seven innovative solutions to protect, revitalise and conserve wetland habitats in designated protected areas.
These initiatives were selected through a public call launched in June last year by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), as part of the “EU for the Green Agenda in Serbia” initiative.
The implementation of these innovations will help restore ecological balance in wetland ecosystems, safeguard biodiversity, improve water quality, and mitigate the adverse effects of climate change, such as droughts, floods, and the spread of invasive species, across Serbia’s wetlands.
Sweden’s support for wetland protection in Serbia is crucial for preserving biodiversity, mitigating climate change, and promoting sustainable development. This partnership reflects our strong commitment to protecting these valuable ecosystems for the benefit of citizens today and for generations to come,” said Charlotte Samelin, Swedish Ambassador to Serbia.
“The key challenge in preserving wetlands, both globally and in Serbia, is balancing development with nature protection. That is why, as the minister responsible, I consider it essential to invest in innovations and initiatives such as those supported by this project—they significantly contribute to that goal,” said Sara Pavkov, Minister of Environmental Protection.
Antoine Avignon, Programme Manager for Environment and Climate Change at the Delegation of the European Union to Serbia, highlighted the importance of Serbia aligning with the EU Nature Restoration Law, a cornerstone of the European Green Deal and the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030. Despite their importance, most wetlands remain degraded due to historical neglect, fragmented public policies and ongoing pressure. These seven solutions will help restore and safeguard Serbia’s wetlands and the vital services they provide,” Avignon said.
Žarko Petrović, Team Leader for Resilient Development at UNDP, emphasised the additional value of the supported solutions: “These nature-based innovations not only protect biodiversity and strengthen local resilience to climate change, but also provide opportunities for education and recreation— deepening the connection between people and their natural surroundings.”
Among the selected projects is the restoration of peatlands in Tara National Park using an innovative “fog catcher” device to support the water regime vital for the survival of an endangered moss species. In the Zasavica Special Nature Reserve (SNR), drones will be deployed to monitor and remove invasive vegetation. In the SNR Kraljevac, interventions along a watercourse will reconnect fragmented wetlands and protect the critically endangered mudminnow (Umbra krameri).
WETLAND PROTECTION PLAYS A KEY ROLE IN PRESERVING BIODIVERSITY, MITIGATING CLIMATE CHANGE, AND SECURING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE FOR ALL
These innovative solutions are being implemented with Sweden’s financial support through the initiative “Protecting and Investing in Biodiversity and Water for Climate Resilience,” which forms part of the broader “EU for the Green Agenda in Serbia” project. The project is led by UNDP, in partnership with the Ministry of Environmental Protection, and with the technical and financial support of the European Union, Sweden and the European Investment Bank (EIB), alongside additional funding provided by the governments of Sweden, Switzerland, and Serbia.
Kovilj Wetland
Photo: Shutterstock
FIKA – THE SWEDISH ART OF THE PAUSE
The deepest joys are often found in the simplest things, such as a shared cup of coffee and a moment of presence
In the hectic rhythm of modern life, where efficiency is often valued more than human connection, the Swedes have gifted the world a simple yet quietly revolutionary concept – fika. At first glance, it seems like nothing more than a coffee break, but fika is, in fact, a deeply rooted social and cultural practice —a way of thinking, even a form of everyday meditation. In Sweden, fika is not a luxury – it is a necessity.
The word “fika” comes from a playful inversion of the syllables in theSwedishwordforcoffee(kaffe), and it has long since outgrown its linguistic origins. Fika is a ritual observed daily – often several times a day – and involves coffee, pastries (most commonly cinnamon buns – kanelbullar), but above all: presence, dialogue, and pause. In offices across Sweden, fika breaks are encouraged because they are known not to reduce productivity, but to foster collaboration, creativity, and emotional well-being.
Unlike in many other cultures, where coffee is gulped down standing, phone in hand, between meetings or emails, fika is an act of A WARM INVITATION TO PAUSE, CONNECT, AND SAVOUR LIFE – ONE CUP AT A TIME
slowing down. It’s a time when colleagues gather to share thoughts, when friends meet without a specific reason, when families pause to be together. And most importantly, it is a moment free of guilt, without the sense that “something else is waiting.” During fika, the most important thing is already happening – human closeness.
Fika also has a subtle but important social impact. It flattens hierarchies, softens lines between boss and intern, young and old, host and guest. Everyone sits at the same table, with the same coffee, for the same reason – to be together.
In a world increasingly losing touch with the natural rhythm of life, fika teaches us how to regain it. It requires nothing complicated –just a little time, something sweet, a warm cup, and the willingness to be present. And perhaps in that very simplicity lies the reason fika inspires people far beyond Sweden’s borders. Because today, there is hardly anything more radical than choosing to stop – and to be there, for one another truly.
At the heart of every fika, of course, is coffee. Swedes rank among the top coffee consumers in the world, but what’s interesting is how they drink it: usually black and strong, but not bitter – a brew known as bryggkaffe, similar to classic filter coffee. It’s poured from thermoses, placed on the table beside cakes, and refilled again and again into small cups, unhurriedly.
There’s not much espresso here, no milk foam or flavoured syrups. Swedes prefer simplicity – coffee is a reliable companion, not a fashion statement. It’s a drink that accompanies conversation, not interrupts it. And while some may add a dash of milk or sugar, the essence remains the same: coffee is there to connect us, to anchor us in the moment. Warm, fragrant, familiar – a reminder that the deepest joys are often found in the simplest of things.
In that sense, fika isn’t so foreign to us here in the Balkans. We have our own version of fika – we don’t call it that. When we say “let’s have coffee,” few people mean just the drink. It’s an invitation to connect, to share, to be together. It’s a moment where phones are set aside, obligations gently paused, and time is carved out for kafenisanje – a ritual that, like fika, isn’t about caffeine, but about people.
And though our conversations may be louder, our gestures broader, and our coffee stronger and thicker, the essence is the same. We, too, understand that small pauses are often the most important parts of the day. That they are what sustain friendships, calm storms, and sometimes change the course of a day. Or a life.
We may not share the language, or the recipe for coffee, but we share the understanding that life is not something to simply endure – it is something to be savoured. In good company, and every now and then, over a cup of coffee.
Photo: Shutterstock
Photo: Beata Janeczko / Shutterstock
VOLVO EX90
DEFINING THE FUTURE OF LUXURY AND CORPORATE MOBILITY
Volvo EX90 sets new standards in sustainable luxury and executive mobility
Volvo Cars proudly announces that the fully electric, seven-seat Volvo EX90 has been named World Luxury Car at the 2025 World Car Awards. This prestigious recognition underscores Volvo’s global leadership in innovation, safety, and sustainable premium design.
Chosen by a jury of 96 automotive journalists from 30 countries, the EX90 impressed with its dual-motor, 510-horsepower performance, near-silent ride, and a technology-rich, elegantly crafted interior. It delivers executive-class comfort alongside practical functionality for modern family needs.
“We are pleased to see the EX90 recognised on the world stage,” said Håkan Samuelsson, CEO of Volvo Cars. “This award reaffirms our mission to offer premium electric vehicles that meet the evolving expectations of our customers, both individuals and businesses.”
More than a personal vehicle, the EX90 is a smart solution for contemporary corporate and professional mobility. With advanced safety systems, long-range electric efficiency, and a refined, minimalist design, it is well suited for executive transport, premium fleet use, and sustainable corporate initiatives. The spacious, thoughtfully appointed cabin, intelligent driver assistance features, and seamless digital connectivity provide a comfortable and productive environment for any business travel.
Inspired by Scandinavian aesthetics, the EX90 features a seamlessly integrated lidar system that enhances full-circle safety and situational awareness, especially useful in demanding urban environments. The flexible seating for up to seven and generous cargo capacity of up to 697 liters offer versatility for both professional and personal use.
Sustainability is central to the EX90’s design. Upholstery made from Nordico, a premium leatherfree material derived from recycled and bio-based sources, reflects Volvo’s commitment to environmentally responsible luxury.
The Volvo EX90 is more than an award-winning SUV. It is a forwardthinking mobility solution that meets the needs of today’s businesses, executives, and families around the world.
THE EX90 IS MORE THAN AN AWARDWINNING SUV – IT’S A FORWARD-THINKING MOBILITY SOLUTION
Focus on
Sweden
June 2025