STRATEGIC AUTONOMY IN EUROPE Comparing the National Positions of Sweden and Germany

Abstract

This thesis explores the national positions of Sweden and Germany on greater European strategic autonomy and compares their respective perspectives. While much of the academic literature has focused on the EU at an aggregate level, the national level remains underexplored. Within the EU, there are many differing and often conflicting views on strategic autonomy. The aim is to enhance the understanding of how national positions on this topic may differ between states. By applying shelter theory, the thesis investigates the intersection of a state’s threat perception and its stance on greater strategic autonomy. It operates on the assumption that a lower threat perception correlates with a more positive view of strategic autonomy. The study is based on a qualitative content analysis of Sweden's and Germany's national security strategies. The findings align with shelter theory, indicating that Germany holds a more positive view of strategic autonomy compared to Sweden. The results further suggest that these differing positions may stem from variations in each country’s confidence in its independent capabilities.