The DCA agreement, which Sweden and the USA agreed on last winter, has now landed on the Riksdag’s table in the form of a bill from the government. In mid-June, the Riksdag is supposed to debate the proposal and vote on it.
– This agreement is important for Swedish security, we can simplify the conditions for being able to receive support from the US in the event of a crisis or war, says Defense Minister Pål Jonson (M) to SVT.
Among other things, the agreement gives the US military access to military bases at 17 locations in Sweden. It also gives the US the opportunity to train, deploy military personnel and store defense equipment in Sweden. The Nordic neighboring countries have agreed on similar agreements.
No ban on nuclear weapons
The proponents believe that the agreement increases security. The critics believe, among other things, that it could open the way for nuclear weapons to be placed in Sweden because there is no express ban on nuclear weapons in the country. The government does not think that such a ban is necessary.
– It is clearly stated in the agreement that everything that happens is based on Swedish consent. There are no expectations from the US to implement it. It also appears that the agreement is based on Swedish sovereignty, on respect for Swedish legislation and and Swedish consent, no one will force us to do this, says Pål Jonson.
Rules for US personnel
Another circumstance that has received criticism is that American personnel must primarily obey American law if they are posted in Sweden, not Swedish law.
How can you guarantee that there will be no impunity for people who are here on a mission?
– That will not happen, you are covered by both Swedish and American legislation. The primary legislation is the American one, but the government also has the option of withdrawing the legislation in cases of great importance, says Jonson.
More than 100 referral bodies and the Legislative Council have had their say. According to the government, the finished proposal contains some adjustments, but in general it does not differ much from the original proposal.