THE DESIRE TO DO SOMETHING FOR PEACE

Ahead of Veterans Day 2018, the Swedish Armed Forces completed a comprehensive survey of all their veterans who had served on international missions. Previously, it had been roughly estimated that around 100,000 individuals had served, but the survey revealed that this figure needed to be revised considerably downwards. In fact, approximately 70,000 individuals had served on international missions with the Swedish Armed Forces. The lower figure was probably due to the fact that many of those who had served overseas had participated in several missions each.

In The Swedish Peace Archives´ work to collect documentation about Sweden’s peacekeeping missions and personal archives from those who have served, we frequently come across application forms and other documents relating to applications for overseas service.

Amid all the missions that have actually taken place, it is easy to overlook those that, for various reasons, never materialised or were carried out away from the public eye. This may have been due to political decisions not to proceed with a mission, changes in the circumstances of a conflict, or, for an individual applicant, something as simple as not being selected on that particular occasion.

We should not forget that, among these 70,000 individuals, there has been a widespread desire to do even more. Beyond them, there may be hundreds of thousands of others who wished to contribute but, for various reasons, never had the opportunity.

This willingness extends even further. Behind every individual who has served, or perhaps merely applied for a mission, there are also family members and loved ones who have been prepared to see their sons or daughters, boyfriends or girlfriends, partners or spouses, mothers or fathers leave for service abroad. The desire to do something for peace is immense.

The Swedish Armed Forces define a veteran as follows:

“According to our definition, anyone who has been employed by the Swedish Armed Forces and participated in international or domestic operations, whether armed or unarmed, is a veteran. Personnel who have participated in international military operations are referred to as overseas veterans.

Our veterans know what it means to work as a team under great pressure, sometimes when the stakes are very high. As a veteran, you possess experience and skills that are valuable both within the Armed Forces and in the civilian labour market. The Swedish Armed Forces are there to support you and your loved ones in maintaining both your physical and mental well-being.

During international missions, we work to prevent ill health by preparing personnel for the mission ahead and the experiences it may involve. Follow-up discussions are then held regularly throughout the mission and after you, as a veteran, have returned to Sweden and spent some time at home.”