Benjamin Dousa (M): “It would bring life to politics”

– People look at Sweden in a very positive way. They know that we are world leaders, they know that we are far ahead in terms of innovation, the green transition, but also that Swedish companies often bring Swedish values and a Swedish view of everything from corporate governance to gender equality to flat organizations, and they also want to get that into the countries, says the minister in the podcast episode.

With his ministerial portfolio, Benjamin Dousa travels the world and meets colleagues, companies and potential international partners. One of the tools he uses to open doors and interest with those he meets, is the image of Sweden, which became so popular a few years ago.

– When I meet other aid ministers from other countries, or foreign ministers from countries where we have a large-scale aid commitment, you think, well, 99 percent of the meeting will probably be about aid and money from Sweden. But often those meetings are largely about “we want more Swedish companies in our market, can you help us get more Swedish companies here”.

In the podcast, Dousa talks about Swedish entrepreneurship, highlighting domestic competitiveness as a strength internationally. Swedish companies are forced to accelerate their innovative power and the green transition to even beat at home – something that then becomes a USP globally.

– We have such tough competition here that it requires you to be very far ahead, says the minister, pointing out more advantages of Swedish business:

– It’s relatively easy, and of course I want it to be even easier to start a business in Sweden. It can be quite difficult sometimes to gear up and grow the company, and the government should and will make it easier. We have a very well-functioning ecosystem of investors. From business angels who really take on high-risk projects to venture capital companies to private equity firms.

Benjamin Dousa himself emerged as a center alternative within MUF, the Moderate Youth League. His ability to unite the factions within the youth union led to his election as chairman in 2016, a post he held until 2020. Since then, he has worked in the business world.

The lessons learned there are ones he wishes other colleagues had shared.

– I think it should be a two-way street. I usually encourage many business representatives I meet that “you should also run for local council or stand in a parliamentary election”. Join a party, no matter which party. It would bring life to politics, give it competition, but also provide new perspectives, says Benjamin Dousa.

The Swedish podcast Digitala influencer-podden is released on Thursdays and can be found wherever podcasts are available.