Editorial on Swedish political priorities

Dear colleagues, Tomorrow, a short editorial will be published in Science, on recent political developments in Sweden. Robert and I wrote this as a reaction to the fact that the Ministry for Environment has been closed down after 35 years in operation, to be integrated into the Ministry of Enterprise and Innovation. We reflect on the risks and possible opportunities this may generate, in light of expressed policy priorities. The text represents a personal opinion and is not an “official view” of the SRC as an institution. It is a reflection based on experiences from the US (Robert) and Sweden (Henrik). I have a special relationship with this ministry since having worked 5 years in the Swedish government offices. So, maybe I take this a bit too personal. The text has little of the zen-like 5 or 10 years of contemplation and writing that we heard of this Monday during the speed talks. Instead, it is a text authored in haste, with poorly contained fury. I appreciate all the support we received during this past week in making this a balanced and carefully expressed opinion. All is not lost, and the new government can still develop national and international political leadership. The new minister of environment, Romina Pourmokhtari seems ambitious, and there will certainly be people in the government who are committed to sustainability and the environment, and will need support now more than before. I will certainly do my best to support this new government with advice if they ask me. I urge you to do the same if provided with an option. Best! Henrik