Sweden Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Sweden, state on the Scandinavian peninsula, northern Europe; 528 447 km², of which 407 311 km² is land area, 10 230 185 residents (2019).Sweden is 1,572 km long and 499 km wide. The country is divided into 25 landscapes, 21 counties, 290 municipalities and 2,523 districts, and 13 dioceses and 1 429 parishes. The capital is Stockholm.

Country facts

Kingdom of Sweden
Country abbreviation: SE (S)
Area: 407 311 km² (land area)
Population (2019): 10,230,185 residents
Capital: Stockholm
Main languages: Swedish
State: Monarchy
Head of State: Carl XVI Gustaf (King)
Head of Government: Stefan Löfven
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 54 112
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 55,040
Currency unit: 1 krona = 100 öre
Currency code: SEK
Country number (telephony): 46
Internet domain names: see
National Day: June 6 (Gustav Vasa’s election to king 1523 and the adoption of the 1809 form of government)

Nature

Land use: forest (52%), agricultural land (8%), other (40%)
Highest mountain: Kebnekaise’s southern peak (2,099 m above sea level)
Longest river: Klarälven – Göta river (720 km)

Population

Population density (2019): 25 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 0.2%; birth number 11 ‰, death number 9 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (18%), 15-64 (62%), 65- (20%)
Average life expectancy (2019): men 81 years, women 85 years
Infant mortality (2019): 2 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 13 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.933 (place 7 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 87%
Most populous cities (2016): Stockholm (923,516 residents in the municipality), Gothenburg (572,799), Malmö (301 706)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (2%), industry (33%), service (65%)
Exports (2017): US $ 165,600 million
Main export products: machinery, vehicles, paper
Main exporting countries: Germany, Norway, Finland
Imports (2017): US $ 153,200 million
Main import products: workshop products, fuel, chemical products
Main Importing Countries: Germany, Netherlands, Norway
Railway network (2016): 14 100 km

Geography of Sweden

Location and Size

Sweden is located in Northern Europe, occupying the largest portion of the Scandinavian Peninsula, which it shares with Norway to the west and Finland to the east. It is bordered by the Baltic Sea to the southeast and the Gulf of Bothnia to the east, which separates Sweden from Finland. To the north, Sweden shares a border with Norway and Finland, while to the south, it borders Denmark across the Øresund Strait. Sweden spans an area of about 450,295 square kilometers (173,860 square miles), making it the fifth-largest country in Europe. Its vast size and proximity to the Arctic Circle provide Sweden with a diverse range of geographical features, including mountains, forests, lakes, and coastal plains.

Topography

Sweden’s topography varies significantly across the country. The western part of Sweden is characterized by the Scandinavian Mountains, which run parallel to the border with Norway. These mountains, including Kebnekaise (Sweden’s highest peak at 2,097 meters or 6,880 feet), create rugged terrain and offer popular destinations for hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities. To the east of the mountains, the central region consists of vast forests and rolling hills, with numerous rivers that flow toward the coast. The southern part of Sweden features more fertile land and plains, which are suitable for agriculture and densely populated. In the far north, the landscape is dominated by the subarctic tundra, with fewer trees and a more extreme climate. Sweden is also home to a number of beautiful lakes, the largest of which is Lake Väddöv, and many islands, such as Gotland and Öland, located along its coastlines.

Rivers and Lakes

Sweden is rich in water resources, with thousands of lakes and rivers spread across the country. The largest river is the Göta älv, which flows from Lake Vänern to the Kattegat, forming part of the country’s important shipping routes. Other major rivers include the Klarälven and the Lule River. Sweden is also home to around 100,000 lakes, many of which are located in the central and northern parts of the country. Lake Vänern, the largest lake in Sweden and the third-largest in Europe, plays a critical role in the nation’s water systems and economy. These rivers and lakes contribute to Sweden’s hydropower capacity, which plays an essential role in the country’s energy production.

Climate

Sweden’s climate is classified as temperate in the south and subarctic in the north, largely due to its proximity to the Arctic Circle. The southern parts of Sweden have a temperate climate, with cold winters and mild to warm summers. In contrast, the northernmost regions experience a subarctic climate with long, cold winters and short, cool summers. The country’s climate is influenced by the North Atlantic Drift, which brings relatively mild temperatures to much of the coastal areas. Winters in Sweden can be harsh, especially in the northernmost regions, where temperatures often drop below freezing. The country experiences significant seasonal variation, with long daylight hours in the summer, especially in the northern areas, and long periods of darkness during the winter months.

Population of Sweden

Demographics

Sweden has a population of approximately 10.5 million people as of 2024. The population density is relatively low compared to many other European countries, due to Sweden’s large land area. About 85% of the population resides in urban areas, with Stockholm, the capital, being the largest and most populous city, followed by Gothenburg and Malmö. The remaining population lives in smaller towns or rural areas. Sweden’s population is relatively homogeneous, though it has become increasingly diverse due to immigration, particularly from the Middle East, Africa, and other European countries. The country has a high standard of living, which attracts individuals seeking economic opportunities or asylum.

Ethnic Groups

Sweden has traditionally been an ethnically homogeneous country, with the majority of the population being of Swedish descent. However, over the past few decades, Sweden has become more ethnically diverse due to immigration. Today, about 20% of the population has foreign-born parents, with significant communities from countries such as Syria, Iraq, Finland, Poland, and Somalia. There are also indigenous Sámi people, primarily found in the northernmost regions of Sweden, whose culture and language have been historically distinct from the majority Swedish population. Although the Sámi people are a small minority, they are an important cultural group, particularly in the context of Sweden’s relationship with its northern regions.

Religion

Sweden is one of the most secular countries in Europe, with a large proportion of the population identifying as non-religious. However, the country has a strong historical connection to Christianity, particularly Lutheranism. The Church of Sweden, which was once the state church, is still the largest religious group, although its influence has significantly decreased in recent decades. Around 60% of Swedes are members of the Church of Sweden, but regular church attendance is relatively low. Sweden has also seen an increase in religious diversity due to immigration, with growing Muslim, Catholic, and Orthodox Christian communities, as well as smaller groups practicing Judaism, Hinduism, and Buddhism. Despite this, religion plays a relatively minor role in public life, and Sweden is known for its strong tradition of religious freedom.

Language

Swedish is the official language of Sweden and is spoken by the vast majority of the population. It is a North Germanic language, part of the larger Indo-European language family, and is closely related to Norwegian and Danish. While Swedish is the primary language in government, education, and daily life, many Swedes are fluent in English, which is taught in schools from an early age. English is commonly spoken in business, higher education, and cultural exchange, making Sweden one of the most proficient non-native English-speaking countries in the world. In addition to Swedish, several minority languages are spoken in Sweden, including Sámi, Romani, and Meänkieli (a Finnish dialect).

Economy of Sweden

Economic Overview

Sweden is one of the wealthiest countries in the world, known for its high standard of living, comprehensive welfare state, and highly developed economy. The Swedish economy is characterized by a combination of a strong industrial base, a thriving services sector, and an advanced technological infrastructure. Sweden is a member of the European Union (EU), though it is not part of the Eurozone, maintaining its own currency, the Swedish krona (SEK). The country has long been a leader in innovation and sustainability, with a strong focus on renewable energy and green technologies. Sweden has also benefited from being a trading hub, with its economic connections to the rest of Europe, the United States, and Asia.

Industry and Manufacturing

Sweden has a highly industrialized economy with a strong manufacturing sector. The country is known for its high-tech industries, such as telecommunications, automotive manufacturing, and information technology. Major Swedish companies like Volvo, Ericsson, and Scania are globally recognized for their contributions to the automotive and telecommunications sectors. Sweden is also known for its innovation in engineering and design, with many internationally recognized brands in the furniture and household goods sectors, such as IKEA. The country has a strong tradition in mining and forestry, with vast forests providing raw materials for the paper and timber industries, which remain important to the economy.

Services and Trade

The service sector in Sweden has seen significant growth, particularly in finance, insurance, healthcare, and education. Sweden is a leader in technological innovation, and its capital, Stockholm, is home to many start-ups and tech companies. The country is recognized globally for its successful public-private partnerships and advanced digital infrastructure. Sweden’s trade is highly diversified, with the country being a major exporter of machinery, motor vehicles, chemicals, and telecommunications equipment. The country enjoys strong trade relationships with the EU, particularly Germany, and the United States. The Swedish government has actively promoted exports and global partnerships through a combination of investment in research and development and the fostering of global markets for Swedish products.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Sweden has a well-developed agricultural sector, but due to its climate, much of the agricultural activity is concentrated in the southern regions, where the growing season is longer and the land is more fertile. Sweden produces a variety of crops, including cereals, potatoes, vegetables, and fruits. The country is also a significant exporter of dairy products and meat, particularly pork and beef. Sweden has abundant natural resources, including timber, iron ore, and hydroelectric power. The forestry industry is a key sector in the Swedish economy, providing materials for both domestic use and export. The country is also a leading producer of renewable energy, with a strong emphasis on wind, hydro, and solar energy.

Economic Challenges

Despite its wealth, Sweden faces challenges, including a relatively high tax burden, an aging population, and concerns over immigration and integration into the workforce. The country’s generous social welfare programs and public sector services require substantial government spending, which can create fiscal pressures. Sweden’s labor market is also subject to globalization, and the country has faced job displacement in some traditional sectors, such as manufacturing. The Swedish government has been working to address these challenges by focusing on education, workforce development, and sustainable economic growth.

Government of Sweden

Political Structure

Sweden is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy. The country has a long history of political stability, and its government operates on the principles of democracy, the rule of law, and respect for human rights. The Swedish monarchy is largely ceremonial, with King Carl XVI Gustaf serving as the current monarch. Political power is vested in the elected parliament and government, and the monarch’s role is symbolic, with no political power. The Swedish government is a coalition-based system, and the Prime Minister is the head of government. The parliament, known as the Riksdag, consists of 349 members who are elected through proportional representation.

Legislative System

Sweden’s legislative system is based on a unicameral parliament known as the Riksdag. The Riksdag is responsible for passing laws, approving the budget, and overseeing the actions of the government. The Swedish political system is characterized by its multi-party structure, where several political parties work together to form coalition governments. Elections are held every four years, and voters choose from a range of political parties representing a broad spectrum of ideologies. The political landscape in Sweden is dynamic, with frequent shifts in coalition governments as parties negotiate and collaborate to maintain majority control.

Judiciary

Sweden’s judiciary is independent of the executive and legislative branches, and it is based on civil law principles. The Swedish court system includes general courts, administrative courts, and specialized courts. The highest court in Sweden is the Supreme Court, which serves as the final court of appeal in civil and criminal cases. The judiciary is responsible for upholding the rule of law, ensuring that laws passed by the Riksdag comply with the Swedish Constitution, and protecting individual rights. Sweden’s judicial system is known for its high level of efficiency and transparency, and the country regularly ranks high in terms of legal fairness and independence.

Culture of Sweden

Art and Architecture

Swedish art and architecture are closely linked to the country’s history, nature, and cultural values. Sweden has a rich tradition of visual arts, from its medieval church paintings and traditional folk art to modern contemporary works. Prominent Swedish artists include Carl Larsson, known for his watercolor paintings depicting Swedish life, and Anders Zorn, recognized for his portraits and landscapes. Sweden’s architectural landscape is equally diverse, with notable examples of medieval structures like Uppsala Cathedral and modernist designs such as the Stockholm City Hall and the Royal Swedish Opera House. The design principles of functionality, simplicity, and sustainability are key features of Swedish architecture, particularly in urban planning and the design of public spaces.

Music and Dance

Sweden has a long and vibrant musical tradition, with genres ranging from folk music to pop. Traditional Swedish folk music is characterized by the use of instruments such as the nyckelharpa, a keyed fiddle, and the violin. Swedish folk dances, such as the polska, are an important part of the country’s cultural heritage. In the 20th century, Sweden became known worldwide for its contributions to popular music, with the most famous example being the Swedish pop group ABBA. In recent years, Sweden has remained a global powerhouse in the music industry, with artists like Avicii, Robyn, and Zara Larsson gaining international recognition.

Cuisine

Swedish cuisine is known for its simplicity, hearty flavors, and use of local ingredients. Traditional Swedish dishes include meatballs (köttbullar), pickled herring (sill), gravlax (cured salmon), and rye bread. The Swedish meal structure revolves around simple, home-cooked dishes, with an emphasis on potatoes, root vegetables, and fish. Sweden is also famous for its fika tradition, which is the Swedish custom of taking a coffee break accompanied by pastries such as cinnamon buns (kanelbullar) or cardamom bread (vetebröd). Swedish cuisine has evolved to include influences from various cultures, especially with the increase in immigration over the past few decades, leading to a more diverse food scene in urban areas.

Festivals and Traditions

Sweden’s cultural life is marked by a range of festivals and traditions, many of which are linked to the changing seasons. Midsummer, celebrated in June, is one of the most important festivals in Sweden, marking the summer solstice with dancing around the maypole, feasting, and singing. Christmas traditions in Sweden are also highly celebrated, with Swedish Christmas markets, festive foods like lutfisk, and the practice of celebrating St. Lucia’s Day on December 13. Other notable Swedish traditions include the Swedish National Day on June 6, and the kanelbullens dag (Cinnamon Bun Day) in October, highlighting the importance of baked goods in Swedish culture.

History of Sweden

Early History

Sweden has a rich history that dates back to the Viking Age, during which it was home to seafaring Norse warriors, traders, and explorers. The Vikings played a significant role in shaping Sweden’s early cultural identity and expanded the Swedish influence across Europe, particularly in the Baltic region. During the medieval period, Sweden was part of a union with Denmark and Norway known as the Kalmar Union, but the country gained independence in the 16th century. This period saw the rise of the Swedish Empire, which became one of the major military powers in Europe.

The Swedish Empire

From the early 17th century to the early 18th century, Sweden was one of the dominant powers in Europe, with territorial holdings stretching across the Baltic region, Finland, and parts of Russia. The Swedish Empire reached its peak under King Charles XI and his son, Charles XII, who led Sweden in a series of successful military campaigns. However, the empire’s decline began with the Great Northern War (1700-1721), which ended in Sweden’s defeat and the loss of much of its territory. The loss of empire led to a period of political instability and economic challenges.

Modern Sweden

In the 19th century, Sweden underwent significant political and economic changes, moving from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional monarchy. The country industrialized and became a more democratic society. Sweden remained neutral during both World Wars, which allowed it to avoid the widespread devastation faced by many European countries. In the post-war period, Sweden developed a welfare state and became known for its progressive policies on health, education, and social security. Sweden also became a leader in environmental sustainability and innovation, positioning itself as a global model for prosperity and social equality.

Contemporary Sweden

Today, Sweden is known for its high standard of living, progressive social policies, and strong economy. The country continues to be a major player in global affairs, particularly in areas like environmentalism, human rights, and technological innovation. Despite facing challenges such as immigration and integration issues, Sweden remains a beacon of democracy, equality, and sustainability in the modern world.