Sweden to Launch New Civilian Foreign Intelligence Agency by 2027

The Swedish government has announced plans to establish a new civilian foreign intelligence service that is set to be operational by January 1, 2027. Annika Brändström has been appointed as the special investigator tasked with preparing and implementing this new agency, following a proposal developed in a summer investigation led by former Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Carl Bildt.

This initiative aims to transfer certain intelligence functions from the military intelligence service, Försvarsmakten, to the new civilian agency. The shift reflects a strategic decision to enhance Sweden's ability to meet its foreign intelligence requirements through a civilian-led approach. The new agency will collaborate closely with Sweden’s Armed Forces, the National Defence Radio Establishment (FRA), the Security Police (Säkerhetspolisen), and other relevant bodies within the country’s total defense framework.

However, the proposal has met with criticism from the Armed Forces, which cautioned against disrupting an already functioning intelligence system amid current global uncertainties. Military officials have expressed concern over changing structures during a period of heightened tensions.

Carl Bildt, who advocated for the new agency in his report, highlighted perceived deficiencies in the existing intelligence operations, particularly criticizing the military intelligence service, Must, for inaccurate assessments prior to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The goal is for the new civilian foreign intelligence service to better support government decision-making on matters related to foreign affairs.

The government’s plan to separate military and civilian intelligence functions signals a significant reorganization aimed at strengthening Sweden's overall security and intelligence capabilities in a rapidly evolving geopolitical environment. Annika Brändström’s appointment as the lead investigator signals a clear timeline and governmental commitment to realizing this vision by 2027.