Sweden answers students' questions about NATO membership and post-neutrality concerns

Sweden was neutral for 200 years until Russia invaded Ukraine. This made officials warn about a Russian threat to Sweden, which worried many people, including teenagers. Masai Björkwall created a program to teach students about NATO's history and geopolitics after students at Viktor Rydberg Junior High School feared war might come to Sweden. The country's top military commander and civil defense minister's comments about the risk of war caused concern among the students. This led to an increase in questions about war to the national children's help line. The program aims to address students' worries about conflict and war and explain why Sweden joined NATO after being neutral for hundreds of years. Some students, like Linnea Ekman, don't see an increased threat because Article 5 of NATO does not require sending troops. However, others, like Edith Maxence, worry that Sweden taking sides could lead to more division in the world. The program has reached around 100,000 Swedish children and raises challenging questions for students, such as whether Sweden should align with authoritarian countries. Sweden became the 32nd member of NATO in March. The program helps students understand the reasons behind Sweden's decision to join NATO and the implications of this alliance. It also encourages critical thinking about cooperation with other countries for military strength. Addressing concerns about war is crucial, especially among young people who may feel anxious or uncertain about the changing geopolitical landscape.