SSE Professor Magnus Mähring Joins Sweden's New Digitalization Council Amid Major AI Investment
The new Digitalization Council, led by Civil Minister Erik Slottner, held its inaugural meeting on June 26. The council's focus is to contribute to the development of the government's strategic work in the digitalization area. The appointed members of the Digitalization Council include representatives from Google, Ericsson, Vinnova, and other notable organizations and companies.
"We have a long-term task ahead of us, and I look forward to many interesting discussions and concrete proposals on what needs to be prioritized for Sweden's digital transition. The goal of the digital transition is concrete benefit for the individual citizen, welfare, and for Swedish companies. With that in mind, my hope is that our work in the Digitalization Council will contribute to concrete input and policy development that makes a difference," says Civil Minister Erik Slottner.
In a related development, the Swedish government has committed to investing half a billion SEK per year to strengthen digitalization in the business sector. This move is seen as a response to Sweden's perceived lag in digitalization efforts since 2020. The investment is expected to significantly boost Sweden's AI capabilities.
"Welfare misses out on so much when digital potential like AI is not utilized," says Civil Minister Erik Slottner, who is also the chairman of the council.
Professor Mähring's appointment to the council is a testament to his expertise in the field of digitalization and the high regard in which he is held within the academic and business communities. His role in the council will involve contributing to the strategic direction of Sweden's digitalization efforts, with a mandate running until December 31, 2026.
"These developments signal a strong commitment from the Swedish government to advance the country's digital capabilities and competitiveness. I am proud to be part of this digital transformation journey, and look forward to contributing to and witnessing the positive impacts of these initiatives on our economy and society," says Professor Magnus Mähring.
