Almedalsveckan

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

When: Tuesday, June 23, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.

Where: Holmen, booth 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 requires Nordic values, openness, and trust.

Thomas Hansen

In uncertain times, listening is leadership—it’s how we maintain trust, promote equality, and ensure sustainability in the Nordic region and Europe.

Marie Alani

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

Riku Ruokolahti

Trust is our most underutilized strategic asset in the Nordic region.

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. Drawing 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 influence reputation priorities, significant common ground points to untapped potential for a unified strategic narrative that strengthens competitiveness, resilience, and international influence.

Panelists discuss whether the New Nordic concept can evolve from a 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. in 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, Swedish Association of Communicators
  • Riku Ruokolahti, Director of Development, Reputation and Trust Analytics