Almedalsveckan 2026

Trust as a Strategy: Communication Leadership in Building a Stronger Nordic Future

When: Tuesday 23 Juni 2026 at 16.00–16.45

Where: Holmen, plats 601, Reputation and Trust Analytics event tent, Schooner Svanhild, Österdahls Brygga in the port of Visby.

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Panelists

Elina Melgin

Without a good reputation, there is no trust. Without trust nothing works.

Per Långsved

True nordic collaboration needs the nordic gold, openness and trust.

Thomas Hansen

In uncertain times, listening is leadership — it’s how we protect trust, advance equality, and deliver sustainability in the Nordics and Europe.

Marie Alani

Nordic cooperation is perhaps more important now than ever before. It is key to ensuring a common trust and resilience built on our shared values and leadership.

Riku Ruokolahti

Trust is our most underutilised strategic asset in Nordics.

Introduction

In a time of geopolitical uncertainty, growing competition and polarization, can the Nordic region strengthen its collective position through shared values, trust and strategic communication? Could a New Nordic narrative become a strategic advantage?

Trust is a critical asset for societies, institutions and businesses alike, and communication professionals play a central role in building and maintaining it. Based on Nordic data, this seminar explores whether shared values such as transparency, responsibility and social trust can form the foundation of a stronger pan-Nordic framework.

While national differences shape reputation priorities, significant common ground suggests untapped potential for a unified strategic narrative that strengthens competitiveness, resilience and international influence.

Panelists discuss whether New Nordic can evolve from cultural identity into a practical framework that supports economic growth, democratic stability and geopolitical relevance in an increasingly uncertain world.

Panelists

  • Elina Melgin, Moderator and Ph.D Communication Sciences, University of Vaasa
  • Marie Alani, Executive Dean, Berghs School of Communication
  • Per Långsved, Head of Personal Banking, Nordea Sweden
  • Thomas Hansen, Board Member, Sveriges Kommunikatörer
  • Riku Ruokolahti, Director of Development, Reputation and Trust Analytics