Sweden‘s Path to NATO Membership: The Green Light from Hungary
TONOY CHAKROBORTY

Sweden‘s Strategic Move: Embracing Collective Security with Impending NATO Membership
Sweden‘s historic stance of neutrality is on the brink of change as the nation moves closer to joining the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), following Hungary’s parliamentary approval. This decision marks a pivotal shift in Sweden’s foreign policy, which has upheld a non-aligned military status for over two centuries.

Unanimous Approval: Hungary’s Vote Paves the Way for Sweden’s NATO Accession
The unanimous consent of existing NATO members is a prerequisite for the accession of any new state. Hungary’s endorsement, therefore, is a decisive moment in Sweden’s aspirations to join the alliance, a move that promises to redefine the security dynamics of Northern Europe.
After a prolonged period of deliberation and overcoming objections from Turkey and Hungary, Sweden’s path to NATO membership received a significant boost. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, whose government had previously criticized Sweden’s stance on Hungarian governance, allowed the motion to proceed to a parliamentary vote, resulting in an overwhelming majority in favor.
Finland’s recent admission into NATO, despite early resistance, has already expanded the alliance’s borders with Russia. As neighboring Sweden looks to join, it does so without a direct border with Russia, yet the potential impact is no less significant. Russia has expressed concerns, warning of “counter-measures” and viewing NATO’s eastward expansion as a threat to its security and national interests.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg highlighted the irony of Russia’s position, noting that President Vladimir Putin’s desire for less NATO presence along his borders has inadvertently led to the opposite outcome, with more NATO troops and member states bolstering the eastern flank of the alliance.
The Strategic Shift: Sweden’s NATO Aspirations
Sweden’s application to NATO is a calculated response to evolving regional security concerns, shifting public opinion, and a growing political consensus within the country. The perceived threat from Russia, particularly after the annexation of Crimea and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, has prompted Sweden to reconsider its defense strategy.

Public sentiment in Sweden has shifted, with many now viewing NATO membership as a means of ensuring national security amid a volatile global landscape. This growing support, coupled with political alignment on the issue, has propelled Sweden’s bid for membership and the potential departure from its long-standing policy of military non-alignment.
Hungary’s Approval: A Decisive Moment for Sweden
The endorsement from Hungary’s parliament is not just a procedural milestone but a reflection of the alliance’s readiness to evolve and confront new security challenges. With Hungary’s support, attention now turns to Turkey, which has reservations regarding Sweden’s position on certain Kurdish groups. Diplomatic efforts are underway to reconcile these issues, showcasing the intricate nature of international security alliances.

The Impact of Sweden’s NATO Membership
Sweden’s potential inclusion in NATO has significant implications for the country and the alliance. By joining NATO, Sweden would gain the security benefits of collective defense, contribute to the stability of the Baltic region, increase military cooperation with other member states, and have a more influential role in shaping NATO’s strategic direction.
However, challenges persist, including the need for Sweden to adapt its defense policies to align with NATO standards and to increase defense spending to meet the alliance’s 2% GDP target.

A New Era for Swedish Defense Policy
The approval from Hungary represents a critical step in Sweden’s journey towards NATO membership, signaling a broader shift in European security dynamics. While the path ahead includes securing final ratifications, Sweden’s prospective membership is set to reshape the security landscape of Northern Europe and strengthen NATO’s collective defense commitment.
Sweden now stands at the cusp of a new era in defense policy, moving from a tradition of neutrality to one of collective security. This strategic adaptation to modern geopolitical complexities underscores Sweden’s commitment to enhancing not only its own security but also that of the broader transatlantic community.
27-02-2024
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