The government's increased ambitions in digitalization are welcome and necessary - now action is needed
The government's digitalization strategy was presented today. TechSverige welcomes the fact that the government clearly highlights tech and digitization as a crucial factor in strengthening Sweden's global competitiveness, welfare and security. The strategy points out new goals and increased ambitions. At the same time, there is concern that the government is not sufficiently demonstrating the decisiveness needed for Sweden to manage a digital transition in line with what developments and the international situation require.
- The fact that Sweden now has a new digitization strategy is very good and something that many actors can rally around to drive digital development and transformation throughout society. The new goal - that Sweden's digital transformation will provide increased benefits for citizens, better welfare, strengthened competitiveness, increased security and reduced administration - underlines the importance of digitization for Sweden's future. However, we can see that the strategy does not include any major trend-breaking measures or initiatives, which will need to be prioritized in the future," says Åsa Zetterberg, CEO of TechSverige.
The strategy contains five strategic areas: Digital skills, Digitization of business, Digitization of public administration, Digitization of welfare and Connectivity, as well as three strategic horizontal objectives for AI, access to data and security. The Agency for Digital Government (DIGG) and the Swedish Post and Telecom Authority (PTS) will be tasked with supporting the implementation of the strategy, developing indicators, monitoring, proposing actions and organizing an annual digitalization conference.
TechSverige has long highlighted the need for a stronger digitalization and tech policy. The world around us is changing rapidly, AI development is advancing at high speed, cyber threats are increasing, the importance of the digital economy is growing and global tech competition is intensifying. Both the EU and Sweden need to shift focus from regulation to simplification and increase focus on creating the right conditions for innovation, investment and entrepreneurship while safeguarding sustainable and safe development.
- The strategy identifies several crucial areas and now the important work of translating the goals into concrete action begins. We have high expectations for the next steps, where reforms, resources and clear responsibilities are needed," says Åsa Zetterberg.
The tech industry has a key role in the implementation, with its expertise and solutions. For Sweden to maintain and strengthen its position, it needs to work closely and actively with the business community. In times of increased uncertainty and where technology development is moving very fast, society's ability to cooperate is particularly important.
- We stand ready to contribute. Sweden has every opportunity to strengthen its position as a leading technology nation. With the right conditions, we can once again become a digital pioneer and show the way for the rest of Europe and the world," says Åsa Zetterberg.