Peder Ohlsson is the new Chief of Communications and Public Affairs

“I really look forward to this assignment. I have not worked in communications previously. However, with the experience I have from so many different levels within the Swedish Armed Forces, at home and abroad, I think I have gained a good understanding of the function and the importance of giving it a major role when planning all activities”, says Peder Ohlsson.

He stresses that he will not be able to focus on details and that he will rely completely on the teamwork and professionalism within his staff.

When asked what he considers to be the most important thing for the Swedish Armed Forces to communicate at present, he says that there are two main areas of concern at the moment:

“External communication is very important, of course. There is a war in Ukraine, and this affects the Swedish Armed Forces in various ways. At the same time, we are in the middle of an intensive exercise period, nationally as well as internationally. In addition, we have to focus on internal communication and how to explain to all our personnel how we will handle our expansion; how we will deal with the two per cent GDP objective and, not least, how the Nato membership will affect defence plans and personnel.”

Peder Ohlsson’s top priority will be to be acquainted with working procedures and to meet as many employees as possible in his department.

“I also have to get a clearer picture of the role of the communications department, its responsibilities and tasks, ahead of the new organisation and forming of the new defence staff”, he says.

Peder Ohlsson lives with his wife in Vaxholm. In his spare time, he likes to spend time with his three sons and their families. He has six grand-children. He also likes hiking, kayaking and cycling.