Swedish Institute of International Affairs Taps New Head of Research

Two new directors and a new head of research join UI (In Swedish)

Dr. Bremberg, an associate professor at Stockholm University, assumes the role from Professor Mark Rhinard. He will oversee UI's research environment and lead its research seminar series, while continuing his work on regional security, security communities, and European Union foreign and security policy.

The appointment comes at a critical juncture for Swedish foreign policy, with the nation adjusting to its new role within the Atlantic alliance after decades of military non-alignment.

"The quality, relevance, and independence of research are issues I look forward to working on, particularly against the backdrop of rapid changes in our external environment," Bremberg said in a statement announcing his appointment.

Beyond his leadership role, Bremberg will serve as a senior researcher in UI's Europe Program, focusing on regional security, security communities, and European Union foreign and security policy — particularly regarding the Mediterranean region.

The Head of Research will also join a newly funded project examining NATO-EU cooperation and Sweden's societal security, supported by the Swedish Research Council. Led by his predecessor Rhinard, the initiative will investigate how the two organizations coordinate on civil defense and preparedness — a timely question as Sweden integrates into NATO's structures while maintaining its strong EU ties.

The research team includes Professor Anna Michalski from Uppsala University and postdoctoral researcher August Danielson from Linköping University.

Bremberg will maintain his academic position at Stockholm University's Department of Political Science at half-time and remain affiliated with the Stockholm Center on Global Governance.

"I also hope to contribute to strengthening the collaboration between the department and UI," he noted.

UI is a non-profit organization founded in 1938. The parent body of the institute is Utrikespolitiska samfundet (The Swedish Society for International Affairs).