Permanent Representative of Sweden to the European Union

Permanent Representative of Sweden to the European Union
since August 2023
Ministry for Foreign Affairs
Permanent Representation of Sweden to the European Union
StyleHis or Her Excellency (formal)
Mr. or Madam Ambassador (informal)
Member ofCommittee of Permanent Representatives
Reports toMinister for Foreign Affairs
SeatSquare de Meeûs 30, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
AppointerGovernment of Sweden
Term lengthNo fixed term
PrecursorPermanent Representative to the ECSC/EC
Formation1994
First holderFrank Belfrage
DeputyDeputy Permanent Representative
Websitewww.swedenabroad.se/en/embassies/european-union/

The Permanent Representative of Sweden to the European Union is Sweden’s top diplomat to the EU, serving as head of the Permanent Representation of Sweden to the European Union in Brussels, Belgium. This position holds the rank of ambassador and plays a central role in shaping and advancing Sweden’s interests within the EU institutions. The permanent representative works closely with Swedish government ministries and other member states to coordinate policies, negotiate legislation, and represent Sweden in high-level EU meetings, including the Committee of Permanent Representatives (COREPER).

Sweden’s engagement with the EU has evolved significantly over the decades, beginning long before its formal accession. The history of the permanent representative’s role stretches back to Sweden’s early diplomatic relations with the EU’s precursors in the 1950s, through to the country's full membership in 1995.