Tidö government reduces aid: 'Obligation towards its own citizens'

Previously, the government and the Sweden Democrats have announced a restructuring of aid policy, including cutting aid to Iraq. Now, a further step is being taken to reduce Sweden’s aid budget, partly to protect its own citizens.

During the opening of the parliamentary session after the summer break, Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson (M) announced that Benjamin Dousa (M) will be the new Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade. Dousa stated that he sees safeguarding the Swedish people’s tax money as his primary mission.

The Tidö parties have now announced a reduction in the aid budget – currently at 56 billion SEK annually, it will be reduced to 53 billion SEK starting in 2026.

– Even with this reduction, Sweden remains one of the world’s most generous aid-giving countries, says Benjamin Dousa to TT.

The reduction is part of the autumn budget proposal, which will be presented in full on Thursday. According to Dousa, there is currently a focus on restructuring the aid budget to ensure efficiency and that the money reaches people in need.

More money for Swedes

He also states that the reduction is made against the backdrop of the many problems Sweden faces.

– A state’s most important obligation is towards its own citizens. Despite the investment needs we have domestically, we have a substantial aid budget. However, in practice, this means there is even more money for the police, defense, and welfare here in Sweden.

Dousa emphasizes that they are addressing a peculiar situation where the aid budget has constantly increased without proper control or prioritization.