| Summary: | The following thesis is a study of why the Swedish government´s approach to the use of military means in the Arctic region has changed over the last ten years. The analysis builds upon theoretical tools of neoclassical realism. First, an examination is made of the costal states’ military development in regards to the Arctic region to settle if there have been any significant shifts in relative power. Second, the Swedish government’s threat perceptions alongside the change of the Swedish military capabilities are analysed. According to the results of the study, several aspects may have played a part in the Swedish policy change. Factors on both the international and the national level are of importance, however it is concluded that changes in decision makers’ perception and reduced military capabilities could have had a certain role in shaping the governments approach to the Arctic region.
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