In her address to the IIEA, Minister Linde explores Sweden’s experience of the COVID-19 pandemic including the unique features of its response in the wider European context. She considers the distinct implications of the crisis for gender equality issues and the particular impact that virus containment measures have had on women. At a global level, Minister Linde reflects on Sweden’s pioneering efforts to implement a feminist foreign policy – the first of its kind – as a vehicle for sustainable development, security and peace.

About the Speaker:

Ann Linde became Minister for Foreign Affairs of Sweden in September 2019. Her previous roles in Government include Minister for Foreign Trade with responsibility for Nordic affairs (2019), and Minster for EU Affairs and Trade (2016-18). A member of the Swedish Social Democratic Party, Minster Linde also served as Head of the International Unit of the Party of European Socialists between 2013 and 2014.