– “Sida will implement the Government's policy and phase out five bilateral strategies. Sida's mission to improve the living conditions of people living in poverty and oppression remains unchanged,” says Jakob Granit, Director-General of Sida.
Development cooperation in the five countries is currently carried out by Sida staff posted abroad and locally employed at the respective embassies. The transition is substantial and will be implemented with due care for staff, while taking full account of our partners’ diverse circumstances.
The embassies and Sida’s geographical departments are preparing phase-out plans to ensure a smooth and responsible transition.
Experience and close dialogue will ensure a secure phase-out
Sida has extensive experience in implementing both phase-outs and major transitions in complex environments. This experience will be invaluable in carrying out the Government’s decisions.
Sida maintains close dialogue with the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, relevant foreign authorities, staff at its headquarters in Rissne, and trade union representatives to ensure that the transition is conducted in a safe and structured manner.
The government’s letter of appropriation for 2026 is expected later in December and will clarify its priorities for the coming years.
Development cooperation continues within other strategies
Humanitarian aid is not affected by the decision, and Sida can continue to carry out development cooperation through regional and thematic strategies.
– “Funding through thematic strategies and guarantees creates great opportunities to mobilise capital in many geographies, also in cooperation with Team Sweden. Central to the work of phasing out bilateral strategies is caring for staff and safeguarding the activities and results of our partners,” says Jakob Granit, Director-General of Sida.