1 ANNUAL REPORT 2025 WWW.PALMECENTER.SE
CONTENTS ABOUT THE PALME CENTER The Olof Palme International Center is the Swedish labour movement’s umbrella organisation for international solidarity and advocacy. We work for democracy, human rights, social justice, sustainability and peace in the spirit of Olof Palme. Through cooperation with civil society organisations, trade unions and progressive political parties in Europe, Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Middle East, we contribute to popular influence, global justice and common security. Through knowledge sharing, debate, joint actions and fundraising, we help to ensure that the Swedish labour movement has a global perspective and works actively for international solidarity. Olof Palme International Center 2026 PO Box 836, SE-101 36 Stockholm Telephone: +46 (0)8-677 57 70 E-mail: info@palmecenter.se www.palmecenter.se Texts and editing: Olof Palme International Center Graphic design: Lisa Jansson Photo: Palme Center unless otherwise stated Printing: MULTIPLY, 2026 SOLIDARITY IS THE SOLUTION ............................................................. 3 THE SWEDISH LABOUR MOVEMENT MAKES A MARK IN THE WORLD ............................................................................................... 4 FUNDRAISING AND FINANCING ............................................................. 6 HOW WE WORK ................................................................................................ 7 THE YEAR THAT HAS PASSED ................................................................... 8 WE ACT AND CHANGE ................................................................................. 10 WE ENGAGE AND INFLUENCE ................................................................ 23 WE EMPOWER PARTNERS AND MEMBERS ....................................... 27 MANAGEMENT REPORT ........................................................................... 30 ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS ...................................................... 35 AUDITOR’S REPORT .................................................................................... 47 BOARD OF DIRECTORS ............................................................................ 49 26 MEMBER ORGANISATIONS 42 COUNTRIES 168 INTERNATIONAL PARTNER ORGANISATIONS 43 EMPLOYEES 2025 WE CARRIED OUT ACTIVITIES WORTH OVER 170 MILLION KRONOR
3 SOLIDARITY IS THE SOLUTION Another turbulent year lies behind us – for the world, for Sweden, and for the Palme Center. Armed conflicts have reached their highest levels in decades, while the rules-based international order is being quickly ero- ded by powerful actors. Progress in reducing global poverty has slowed significantly, and in several of the world’s most vulnerable countries poverty is once again increasing. Inequality is soaring and climate action is losing momentum. Global developments seem to be spinning increasingly out of control. At the same time, systematic attacks on democracy and on civil society organisations working to counter these dangerous trends continue. Step by step, right-wing authoritarian forces are shifting the boundaries of what is acceptable in a democratic society. Popular movements, trade unions and political opponents are being subjected to targeted attacks as part of a deliberate strategy to weaken and silence critical voices. To confront these attacks and the negative global trends, we must now stand together. When the Palme Center and the Swedish labour movement, support civil society organisations and trade unions in other countries, it is not about charity – it is about defending shared interests. For every opposition voice silenced in Türkiye or Georgia, and for every trade union leader imprisoned in China or Myanmar, our own ability to defend democracy, our rights and our future is also weakened in the globalised world we live in. During the year, the Palme Center has continued to act and work together with our many partners and allies around the world. We have implemented 168 international projects, working through capacity- building, organising, communication and advocacy to advance our values and solutions. We will not back down in our commitment – not an inch – and neither will our partners. The strength of the labour movement has always been rooted in solidarity. It is when we see one another – as human beings, citizens and workers in a shared world – and act together that real change becomes possible. That is why we must resist all attempts to weaken and divide us. Our response must be clear: We stand together – at home and globally. This is not just about the lives and rights of others, but about our shared future. Social movements, trade unions and popular education are not the problem – they are the solution. And that solution, now as before, is built on unity and solidarity. Oscar Ernerot Secretary General Margot Wallström Chair Photo: David Walegren
4 The activities of the Palme Center and our member organisations play an important role in our international solidarity around the world. They make a difference in the lives of many people. SWEDISH LABOUR MOVEMENT MAKES A MARK IN THE WORLD GLOBALLY 7% LATIN AMERICA 8% DR CONGO: Through our partner CONAFED, a solidarity-based social insurance has been established for civil society actors and informal workers. The initiative strengthens access to pensions and healthcare, particularly for women in precarious working conditions. LATIN AMERICA: Through regional and national seminars on automation, AI and the gig economy, political parties have developed joint policy proposals for the future labour market, with a focus on fair working conditions and stronger social protection systems. EASTERN EUROPE: The Palme Center has played a leading role in coordinating support ahead of the formation of a new progressive party in Ukraine, and has also taken new initiatives together with other Swedish party-affiliated foundations to support democracy efforts in increasingly repressive countries in Eastern Europe. WHERE MONEY GOES INTERNATIONALLY (BY REGION IN PER CENT) URUGUAY BRAZIL BOLIVIA CHILE COLOMBIA TUNISIA OUR FIVE POLITICAL PRIORITIES • DEMOCRACY & HUMAN RIGHTS • EQUALITY & WORKERS’ RIGHTS • GENDER EQUALITY • JUST TRANSITION • PEACE & DIALOGUE WEST SAHARA ALBANIA: Following advocacy work by the Olof Palme International Center’s partner GADC, the labour inspectorate has investigated the textile company AN & GES in Shkodër following violations of labour law. The authority demanded legal conditions and the payment of wages – a vital step in strengthening protection for migrant workers. ON THE GROUND IN THE WORLD We have offices in Stockholm, Albania, Chile, Democratic Republic of Congo, Philippines, Kosovo, Palestine, Serbia, South Africa and Zimbabwe. In addition, we have local staff in confidential countries. ARGENTINA PARAGUAY GUATEMALA NICARAGUA DOMINICAN REPUBLIC COSTA RICA that guide our activities and our partnerships with local partners and member organisations: MEXICO
5 ASIA 16% AFRICA 24% MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA 15% MYANMAR: Through a regional women’s forum, networks between civil society organisations have been strengthened, and women from minority groups have taken leading roles in work for peace and security. The initiative has increased women’s influence in local processes. NAMIBIA SOUTH AFRICA DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO ZIMBABWE ESWATINI SOMALIA TÜRKIYE BELARUS UKRAINE SYRIA PALESTINE PHILIPPINES MYANMAR SERBIA KOSOVO ALBANIA NORTH MACEDONIA BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA MOLDAVIA WE ARE THE OLOF PALME INTERNATIONAL CENTER The 26 member organisations of the Palme Center represent the Swedish labour movement. We bring together popular movements across civil society, trade unions and politics. Together we support people to organise and take power over their lives. SOUTH AFRICA: A historic ruling in South Africa’s Consti- tutional Court has established that parental leave may not be based on gender, which strengthens gender equality in working life. Our partner LRS contributed to the process, and the ruling provides trade unions with new opportunities to pursue more equal terms in collective agreements. NORTH MACEDONIA: Our partner Glasen Tekstilec has reached a milestone in the fight for unpaid wages. The German OECD National Contact Point has accepted their complaint for further examination. This is a significant success for textile workers’ rights and an important step towards holding the company to account. TÜRKIYE: Through legal support, the Palme Center’s partner Legal Aid has strengthened protection for women and LGBTQI persons subjected to violence. They have also built international alliances for joint campaigns against violence against women. PALESTINE: The Palme Center’s partner TAWAON has developed a digital system to track and analyse labour disputes. This enables trade unions to detect patterns, identify risks, and act more swiftly. PHILIPPINES: Through our partner SIMCARRD, women in Mindanao have taken leading roles in civil society and local politics, where they today constitute the majority of the leadership in several local organisations. ZIMBABWE: Our partner Patsimeredu Edutainment Trust has, together with employers, introduced a programme for employee well-being where theatre is used to raise issues regarding the working environment, health, and rights. MOCAMBIQUEANGOLA EGYPT IRAQ GEORGIA THAILAND THAILAND: A new progressive youth network has been established. It mobilises young people for increased political influence and joint reform proposals, and strengthens their role in society. ARMENIA EASTERN EUROPE AND THE WESTERN BALKANS 30%
6 During 2025, the situation in Gaza remained catastrophic. Through the fundraising campaign for Life, Peace and Freedom in Palestine, the Olof Palme Center has been able to continue standing alongside local organisations that work every day to meet people’s needs and keep the hope for peace and freedom alive. Over 1,635,000 SEK was raised during the year. Through this, we have been able to contribute to both vital interventions for people in acute distress and more long-term work for democracy, human rights, and peace. A strong civil society is crucial, not only for addressing the current crisis but also so that the people of Palestine can build a safer, freer, and more democratic future. In the spring, an emergency appeal was also launched for our partners in Myanmar following an earthquake in Southeast Asia. Despite being affected themselves, they played a key role in coordinating local rescue efforts. The appeal raised 186,000 SEK in a short space of time. Otherwise, our fundraising for the Solidarity Fund has primarily contributed to finance the Olof Palme Center’s own contribution to our international solidarity projects. This normally accounts for 7–15 per cent of project costs and is often a prerequisite for receiving funding from external donors. In this way, every gift is amplified, as each Swedish crown (SEK) in practice ena- bles a further 7–14 SEK in international solidarity work. Throughout the year, the Palme Center has worked The Olof Palme Center has good financial capacity to manage extensive assignments. Our operations are largely financed through funding from external institutional donors. During the year, we had ten agreements, seven of which were with Sida. The largest was the programme for international civil society support, followed by the programme for democracy support through Swedish party-affiliated orga- nisations. We also run two EU-funded projects: one on just transition in Türkiye together with the trade union movement, and one in Serbia focused on countering discrimination, violence, and harassment in the workplace. To meet the requirements for co-financing of many assignments, our member organisations typically contribute 7–15 per cent of the project costs for the interventions in which they participate. They also pay an annual membership fee. Fundraising from organisations comes largely from our member organisations, while fundraising from individuals primarily consists of monthly giving and other donations. Upon completion of activities, our partners report on how the funds have been used. The Palme Center then reports results and outcomes to the funders. Well-functioning administra- tion is a prerequisite for conducting effective and responsible operations. In 2025, the costs for administration and fundraising amounted to 8 per cent of the total turnover. EU 1,7% MEMB 2,5% FUND- RAISING 8,6%87,2% FUNDRAISING FINANCING Sponsorship gift (MO) Monthly gift Organisational gift Personal gift Gift of wages Testamentary gift Total 3 134 620 SEK 1 953 228 SEK 1 604 625 SEK 1 110 455 SEK 300 367 SEK 1 796 030 SEK 9 899 325 SEK actively with dialogue and fundraising directed towards our private donors. Several targeted mail- ings to monthly donors have been made, including in June and in connection with the Christmas campaign, which was also shared on social media. In addition, a range of fundraising activities have been carried out, notably digital ones as well as in connection with the major meetings of our member organisations. A particularly successful telemarketing campaign at the end of the year resulted in 220 new monthly donors. Active development work was also initiated during the year with the aim of strengthening the Palme Center’s fundraising operations and bolste- ring our long-term independence. INCREASED EFFORTS TO DIVERSIFY FUNDING The increased uncertainty surrounding our government-funded agreements in recent years became apparent during the year, when the Palme Center was excluded on political grounds from the application process under the government’s new civil society strategy, despite the organisation meeting all the requirements set out in the process. An agreement was reached that cooperation with Sida on civil society support will be phased out gradually by 2027. Against this backdrop, efforts to further diversify the organisation’s funding were intensified. The focus has been on strengthening internal capacity, developing new partnerships and funding models, and expanding fundraising activities.
7 HOW WE WORK PROGRESSIVE MOVEMENTS THAT CHANGE SOCIETIES AND PEOPLE’S EVERYDAY LIVES By working together with civil society organisations, trade unions and political parties, we contribute to positive developments in democracy, human rights, equality, gender equality, just climate change and peace. We also make our voices heard together and build opinion through campaigns, seminars and advocacy. 106 PROJECTS FOR DEMOCRACY AND HUMAN RIGHTS We strengthen our partner organisations’ capacity to organise, collaborate and mobilise. Together, we build strong democratic movements that enable broad popular participation and influence. We place particular emphasis on member-based organisa- tions and social movements that engage under- represented and marginalised groups. 75 PROJECTS FOR EQUALITY AND WORKERS’ RIGHTS We work globally to reduce inequalities, strengthen welfare and promote social justice. Through our support, people in precarious employment can organise themselves into trade unions, even where trade union rights are restricted. At the same time, we strengthen the capacity of trade unions and work to increase collaborations between civil society, trade unions and political parties in order to drive progressive reforms. 59 PROJECTS FOR GENDER EQUALITY We promote cooperation between women orga- nised in the Swedish labour movement and their global peers. By promoting gender equality reforms, we aim to increase women’s participation in society, their influence over the economy and their participation in the labour market. Our support also empowers women to organise politically and to seek leadership positions. Gender equality and non-discrimination are perspectives that are inte- grated into all of the Palme Center’s partnerships. 15 PROJECTS FOR A JUST TRANSITION We work to strengthen the role of our partner organisations in the transition to sustainable development. With our support tools, trainings and strategies are developed to drive the work for a just transition. Through communication and advocacy, we put a just climate transition on the agenda, both in Sweden and internationally. All our projects are analysed from an environmental and climate perspective. 29 PROJECTS FOR PEACE AND DIALOGUE We support the work of civil society organisations in conflict areas and engage the Swedish labour movement in peace and disarmament efforts. Through dialogue, mediation and cross-border cooperation, we contribute to peaceful solutions. Particular emphasis is placed on the participation of women and young people in peace and dialogue processes. Our work is based on inclusion and reciprocity, in line with the Palme Commission’s con- clusions on common security. Conflict and conflict sensitivity are perspectives that are integrated in all our co-operation projects. Photo: Union of the Hydrocarbon Sector Photo: VosEz Photo: Akbayan
8 THE PALME CENTER 2025 THE YEAR THAT HAS PASSED JANUARY » Oscar Ernerot and the Swedish Trade Union Confederation’s first Vice-President, Louise Olsson, kick off the year with an op-ed arguing that an active foreign policy promoting democracy and human rights is not at odds with Swedish interests. » The ceasefire in Gaza is welcomed, with calls for respect for interna- tional law and international courts. » The Palme Center hosts a work- shop on the Doughnut Economics and how we can create prosperity within the planet’s limits. » Together with 20 organisations, the Palme Center publish an opinion piece arguing that develop- ment aid must be seen as a defence and security policy priority. FEBRUARY » The fourth anniversary of the military coup in Myanmar is marked by calls for increased support to the pro-democracy movement. » The Palme Center and 160 other organisations urge the European Commission to ban trade with Israel’s illegal settlements. » A fully booked seminar is held at Stockholm Culture House with the Jewish–Palestinian grassroots movement Standing Together. » On the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the annual manifestation at Sergels torg is co-organised. MARCH » A seminar on the need for democracy and an inclu sive transition in Syria is organised at ABF following the fall of the Assad regime. » Solidarity is expressed with Ekrem İmamoğlu following further arrests of opposition figures in Türkiye. » A Studio Solidarity event is organised on the conflict in eastern DR Congo and its consequ- ences for civilians and human rights activists. APRIL » An emergency appeal for the Palme Center’s partners in Myanmar is launched following the earthquake in South-East Asia. » With the support of the Palme Center, the Klimatriksdagen 2025 brings together hundreds of participants to mobilise for a just transition. » Oscar Ernerot speaks at the ‘Russia Out of Ukraine’ action group’s demonstration outside the Russian Embassy in Stockholm. » An international conference on peace and collective security is organised in collaboration with the International Peace Bureau and ITUC. MAY » May Day is celebra- ted with a focus on international solidarity. Oscar Ernerot speaks in Kärrtorp alongside the Ukrainian ambassador and Ann Linde. » A historic May Day march in Belgrade brings together trade unions and students with partici- pation from the Palme Center in solidarity with the Serbian labour movement. » The Israeli-Palestinian peace network, the Two-State Coalition, visits Stockholm for talks with politicians and Swedish civil society. » In Svenska Dagbladet, the Palme Center calls on Sweden to broaden its security policy toolbox and invest in peace. » The Palme Center participates in the Social Democrats’ party congress in Gothenburg with a seminar on peace and security. » An initiative is taken to hold round-table discussions in Bosnia and Herzegovina on labour law reforms and EU integration. » The Palme Center hosts a dialogue talk in Namibia on just transition with trade unions, nature conser- vation and indigenous peoples’ organisations.
9 JUNE » The Palme Center and Oxfam Sweden take the initiative for the demon- stration “We Draw the Red Line for Gaza”, which gather more than 15,000 participants in Stockholm. » Sida’s Director-General excludes the Palme Center from applying under the government’s civil society strategy, despite the organisation having met all requirements and passed all assessments. A conference is organised in collaboration with Södertörn University on authorita- rian trends and increasing restrictions on civil society. » The Palme Center participates in the union Kommunal’s congress and highlights the need for international solidarity. » An Almedalen seminar is organi- sed on democracy, development aid and Sweden’s image in a new geopolitical reality. JULY » A solidarity campaign is launched to high- light the important work of our civil society partners on social media over the summer. » The Palme Center expands its democracy work in increasingly repressive countries in Eastern Europe, in collaboration with other Swedish political party foundations. AUGUST » A demonstration against star- vation and violations of interna- tional law in Gaza is organised in collaboration with the Palme Center’s member organisations. » The Palme Center works along- side European civil society organisations to develop a global agenda for just transition. SEPTEMBER » Talks on Syria’s future bring together Syrian representatives in Amman for a dialogue on an inclusive and peaceful transition. » The Secretary-General of the Palme Center visits UNRWA’s refugee camps in Jordan. » A survey is conducted to map the Palme Center partners’ needs regarding sustainable financing, resource mobilisation and their views on our cooperation. » Together with IUSY and IFLRY, a global conference for young politicians on a just transition is organised. OCTOBER » The Palme Center’s Solidarity Network for Palestine is launched. » An international democracy conference is organised in Stockholm in collaboration with the Political Party Peer Network and Swedish party-affiliated organisations. » A seminar is organised on the UN Day with ABF Stockholm on the multilateral world order. » The “Read the Children’s Names” manifestation is held in Stockholm to honour the children killed in Gaza. » A seminar with the correspondent Cecilia Uddén is organised in collaboration with ABF on the situation in Gaza and the Middle East. » A new global trade union network is launched with the Palme Center’s trade union partners. » A series of round-table discus- sions on future trade and aid policy begins, involving stakehol- ders from business, trade unions, academia and civil society. » In collaboration with ABF Skåne, a public education initiative is launched to mobilise residents in three municipalities in Skåne for just transition. NOVEMBER » The Palme Center and CEE Gender Networks organise a conference in Tirana, with politicians from the Western Balkans, on regional cooperation, EU integration and gender equality. » The Palme Center co-organise a progressive summit in Kyiv on Ukrainian EU membership and just reconstruction. » The Palme Day is held in Gothen- burg, focusing on hope, solutions and grassroots power for transition and an eco-social model of society. DECEMBER » EU funding is granted for a new project in Serbia to combat discrimination, in collaboration with Kommunal, ILO Serbia and local organisations. » In an op-ed the Palme Center calls for Africa to be recognised as an equal partner in the green transition. » A Lucia day demonstration for peace is held in Stockholm, calling for legislation banning nuclear weapons on Swedish territory. » Sida approves the Palme Center’s application for an extension to continue its activi- ties in North Macedonia. » In a joint letter to the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and the Chinese Embassy, the Palme Center calls for the release of the imprisoned trade union and democracy activist Lee Cheuk-yan.
10 WE ACT AND CHANGE Following the 2025 election, the progressive party Akbayan is at the centre of a new political dynamic in the Philippines. The party became the largest in the country’s party-list system and received a record number of votes, securing the maximum number of seats in Congress. This success is closely linked to a broad popular movement against corruption, where the party’s campaign emerged following revelations of widespread embezzlement linked to the state budget for flood protection. Together with civil society organisations, local leaders and youth movements, Akbayan mobilised a national movement for accountability and reform. Demonstrations brought together thou- sands of people across the country and focused attention on how political dynasties and cliente- lism enable systematic corruption. A key force in the mobilisation was the young activists who participated through the Akbayan Youth wing. Their campaign, Youth Against Kurakot, organised a new generation of young people demanding transparency and accountability from those in power. The protests on EDSA – one of Manila’s main thoroughfares and a symbolic site in the Philippines’ democratic history – demonstrated a growing youth engagement in political change. The collaboration with SSU has helped to strengthen organisation, political education and inclusive leadership within the youth movement. Through training and the exchange of experien- ces, more young people have become involved in the work for democracy and accountability. The mobilisation has put strong pressure on decision-makers to push through reforms against political dynasties and strengthen anti-corruption legislation. DEMOCRACY & HUMAN RIGHTS THE PHILIPPINES: A MASS MOVEMENT AGAINST CORRUPTION IS CHANGING THE COUNTRY’S POLITICAL LANDSCAPE Photo: Akbayan Photo: Akbayan
11 TÜRKIYE: STRONGER LEGAL PROTECTION FOR TRANS WOMEN In 2025, the Palme Center’s partner organisation, Legal Aid, helped to strengthen legal protection for trans women who are subjected to violence and arbi- trary arrests. Ahead of Trans Pride Week in Istanbul, the organisation, together with the human rights organisation HRA Istanbul, coordinated on-site legal support during the demonstrations. Lawyers were present as observers and were able to intervene immediately when trans women were arrested. These efforts led to faster releases and encoura- ged more trans women who had been subjected to violence to report abuse and initiate legal procee- dings. The organisation also documented rights violations during arrests and in custody, which strengthened the prospects of pursuing the cases further through the courts. Through joint actions with other human rights organisations, violence against trans women was highlighted via social media, panels and public discussions. Several cases were subsequently raised politically and brought to the attention of the Turkish parliament through questions and interpellations from MPs. ALBANIA: CIVIL SOCIETY STRENGTHENS THE DIALOGUE ON LABOUR LAW When changes to Albania’s labour legislation were adopted in 2024, the process drew strong criticism. The legislative changes were implemented without sufficient dialogue, which caused concern among workers and trade unions. The Palme Center’s partner organisation, the Centre for Labour Rights (CLR), highlighted these shortcomings through analysis, advocacy and dialogue with the relevant institutions. They also submitted a formal complaint to the country’s ombudsman, who launched an investigation into the legislative process. The investigation revealed that the requirements for consultation with relevant stakeholders had not been met. It therefore recommended that the government strengthen the consultation process and involve the social partners to a greater extent through the National Labour Council. As a result of the CLR’s work, the responsible ministry has under- taken to improve dialogue with civil society and trade unions in future changes to labour legislation. This is an important step towards more transparent decision-making processes and greater influence for workers in Albania. DEMOCRACY & HUMAN RIGHTS Photo: CLR Photo: Legal Aid EQUALITY & WORKERS’ RIGHTS NORTH MACEDONIA: CITIZENS’ DEMANDS BECAME POLITICAL COMMITMENTS Many citizens in North Macedonia feel that engaging with politicians rarely leads to real change. Ahead of the 2025 local elections, the Palme Center’s partner organisation, NGO Info-centre, therefore brought together over 1,180 residents across six municipali- ties to set out their priorities for their own local communities. Through a structured process involving surveys, focus groups and public debates, citizens were given the opportunity to ask mayoral candidates directly how they intended to implement these demands. Following the election, the process was followed up with the newly elected mayors. The result was a democratic breakthrough: in all six municipalities, the mayors signed formal cooperation agreements for the 2026–2029 term of office, in which they commit- ted to working on the basis of the priorities formula- ted by the citizens themselves. Photo: NGO Info-centre DEMOCRACY & HUMAN RIGHTS
12 In San Jose del Monte, local politics has long been dominated by political dynasties, large campaign budgets and traditional electoral machinery. But in the last local elections, a new generation of voters showed that politics can also be built from the bottom up. With the support of hundreds of young volunteers, human rights lawyer Atty. Ronalyn Pordan succeeded in winning a seat on the city council through a campaign built on dialogue and grassroots mobilisation. Ronalyn Pordan was no typical candidate. As a lawyer, she had for several years offered free legal advice to vulnerable groups, including in land disputes, labour disputes and cases of violence against women. When she decided to stand for election, she lacked both financial resources and the backing of a political dynasty. Instead, the campaign was built on a growing network of young people inspired by her work. Through the Palme Center’s partner organi- sation, the Active Citizenship Foundation (ACF), several of the young volunteers received training in how to run so-called grassroots campaigns – cam- paigns based on dialogue and organisation rather than money. Young activists organised themselves into local teams, went door-to-door, visited small shops and spoke with families in their neighbour- hoods. The campaign’s motto became “Kwento, hindi kwarta” – “Stories, not money”. The campaign quickly grew into a broad move- ment – the Purple Movement – which symbolised her feminist values and vision of a more inclusive politics. When the votes were counted, it was clear that the grassroots mobilisation had succeeded. Despite limited resources, Ronalyn Pordan won a seat on the city council. The victory marks more than just an election result. It shows that young people can change politics through organisation and participation. Today, many of the volunteers continue to work alongside Pordan on issues such as education, social services, youth participation and the protection of vulnerable groups. Foto: STBIH Akbayan Council Member Pordan at San Jose del Monte City Hall. Photo: Akbayan THE PHILIPPINES: YOUTH ENGAGEMENT PAVED THE WAY FOR A NEW FEMALE LEADER GENDER EQUALITY SOUTH AFRICA: PARALEGAL MANUAL, RIGHTS IN PRACTICE In South Africa, the Palme Center’s partner, the Education and Training Unit (ETU), has updated the Paralegal Manual (paralegaladvice.org.za) over the past year. It provides practical guidance on laws and legal processes that affect people’s everyday lives, and is specifically designed for advice centres, civil society organisations, trade union representatives and others who support vulnerable groups. The manual comprises over 1,000 pages and is available online, via the Legal Fundi app and in print. The material is used by civil society, public authori- ties and local representatives to provide practical support on issues relating to working conditions, social security and legal processes. By further developing much-needed methodological resources in collaboration with other stakeholders, ETU is helping more people to claim their rights in practice. DEMOCRACY & HUMAN RIGHTS EQUALITY DEMOCRACY & HUMAN RIGHTS
13 SYRIA: TALKS ON AN INCLUSIVE AND PEACEFUL TRANSITION Following the fall of the Assad regime, Syria faces a crucial crossroads: a peaceful political transition or continued instability. After 14 years of war and five decades of brutal dictatorial rule, there is a strong desire among Syrians to build a new society characterised by peace and inclusion. The Palme Center, together with SILC and the Swedish Dialogue Institute in Amman, brought together representatives from different sections of Syrian society for a meeting on the way forward for the country. The participants came from diverse political and social backgrounds and met to discuss how Syria’s future system of government might reflect the country’s multifaceted society. During the discussions, issues such as peaceful coexistence, coalition-building and equal represen- tation between women and men were raised. By also drawing on experiences from other countries that have undergone political transitions, the par- ticipants were able to identify common challenges and possible ways forward. PEACE & DIALOGUE ALBANIA: STRIKE GAVE OIL WORKERS A STRONGER VOICE Oil workers at the Chinese company Bankers Petroleum in Albania mobilised during the year to demand better conditions and respect for collective agreements. More than 60 per cent of the members took part in demonstrations and a three-week strike, during which several workers also went on hunger strike. The workers, organised in the Union of the Hydrocarbon Sector, protested against low wages, delayed payments and the failure to comply with collective agreements. When dialogue with the com- pany failed to yield results, the mobilisation intensi- fied, which quickly attracted national attention. The increased pressure led to the Labour Inspectorate and the Ministry of Economy step- ping in as mediators. The parties reached an initial agreement on a financial review of the company’s operations as a basis for addressing the demands. The Palme Center contributed through internatio- nal solidarity and advocacy work. Although the pro- cess is ongoing, the mobilisation has strengthened the workers’ self-confidence, highlighted working conditions in the oil industry and contributed to a stronger social dialogue. EQUALITY & WORKERS’ RIGHTS Photo: Svenska dialoginstitutet i Amman Photo: Union of the Hydrocarbon Sector Foto: STBIH SOUTH AFRICA: YOUNG AND MARGINALISED PEOPLE ARE MAKING THEIR VOICE HEARD IN POLITICS Through targeted training programmes, youth academies and party-affiliated workshops, the Palme Center’s partner, ETU, has helped political parties in southern Africa to include young people and margi- nalised groups more effectively in their leadership. The results are clear: participants from the program- mes have gone on to take up roles as local politici- ans, party officials and, in some cases, national leadership positions. In South Africa, ETU contribu- ted to policy processes within the ANC that resulted in decisions on greater inclusion, with LGBTQI people also being given a greater role in political leadership. In Namibia, young people from the programme have taken up leadership roles and participated in key party processes at national level. Overall, the parties have broadened their recruitment and are including new groups to a greater extent in political decision-making. Photo: ETU DEMOCRACY & HUMAN RIGHTS
14 PALESTINE: MORE YOUTH ELIGIBLE TO STAND FOR ELECTION In Palestine, people can vote from the age of 18, but until recently youth were not allowed to stand as can- didates in local elections until they had turned 25. This contradiction excluded a large group of young people from political decision-making. Thanks to long-term advocacy work led by the youth organisation Pyalara, this has now been changed. In 2021, the organisation formed a coalition with over 80 civil society organisations, which launched a national campaign to lower the age limit. The cam- paign combined public awareness-raising, dialogue with decision-makers and the mobilisation of young people across the country. The young people them- selves were at the centre – they took part in debates with politicians, engaged local leaders and kept the issue alive even when election processes were postponed. In November 2025, President Mahmoud Abbas finally issued a decree lowering the minimum age for standing as a candidate in local elections from 25 to 23. The reform did not go all the way to the campaign’s original demand of 18, but it nevertheless marks a clear victory for civil society’s advocacy work. The change opens up politics to a new generation. Young people will have greater opportunities to participate in local decision-making on issues such as education, employment, public services and local development. The reform also strengthens confidence in peaceful democratic processes and demonstrates that organised young people can drive real political change themselves. THAILAND: 40,000 BURMESE REFUGEES GRANTED THE RIGHT TO WORK Tens of thousands of people who have fled the war in Myanmar have long been living in camps in Thailand without the opportunity to work legally and support their families. As international aid has fallen sharply, the uncertainty is growing for these already vulnerable communities. Through joint advocacy efforts by a progressive parliamentary partner in Thailand, civil society organisations and the SocDem Asia network, the situation has begun to change. In December 2024, policy workshops were organised where Thai politicians, researchers and representatives of Burmese communities met. In March 2025, a conference on Myanmar was organised in the Thai parliament, focusing on living conditions and security in Thailand’s border areas. This resulted in concrete policy proposals regarding access to the labour market, education, healthcare and legal status for people from Myan- mar in the country. Our Thai partner adopted the proposals as part of its parliamentary agenda and championed the issue alongside civil society. When the Thai government finally took action, the result was that around 40,000 refugees from Myanmar have now been granted work permits in Thailand. For many, the decision means legal income for the first time, greater security and increased dignity. At the same time, it opens the door to further discussions on education for children, access to healthcare and more long-term social inclusion. Photo: PYALARA Photo: Rangsiman Rome DEMOCRACY & HUMAN RIGHTS EQUALITY & WORKERS’ RIGHTS Meeting between coalition members, the Independent Palestinian Human Rights Commission, and the Palestinian Election Commission. DEMOCRACY & HUMAN RIGHTS EQUALITY 14
15 UKRAINE: PROGRESSIVE SUMMIT PUTS UKRAINE’S FUTURE ON THE AGENDA In the midst of Russia’s full-scale war, the Palme Center’s partner, SD Platform, brought together Euro- pean social democrats in Kyiv for the first EUkraine Summit – the largest gathering of progressive forces in Ukraine to date. The summit marked an important step in the work to build a strong progressive move- ment with the aim of forming a new political party. The Palme Center was a co-organiser and partici- pated with a Swedish delegation. By strengthening progressive forces, this collaboration helps to pro- mote a political alternative, where reconstruction is not just about investment and infrastructure but also about democracy, social justice and human rights. The SD Platform is an important progressive voice in a political landscape long dominated by the centre and the right. By bringing together civil society, trade unions, the public sector and academia, they are working towards a society built on freedom, justice and solidarity, and for a just reconstruction of Ukraine. DEMOCRACY & HUMAN RIGHTS EQUALITY Photo: SD Platform PALESTINE: TENT SCHOOLS BROUGHT HOPE TO CHILDREN IN GAZA During the year, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepened. Civilians faced starvation as the Israeli government blocked emergency aid while the bombing continued. Amid the war, the Palme Center’s partner Pyalara establis- hed simple tent schools for children in Gaza, where they could attend lessons in Arabic, English and mathematics, and also draw, sing and play. For many, the schools provided a moment of safety in an otherwise dangerous and uncertain existence. In total, the initiative reached over 700 children aged between 7 and 13. Thanks to solidarity from many people in Sweden, support from the Palme Center’s fundraising campaign has been able to be channelled to civil society organisa- tions helping the population in Gaza. In addition to the tent schools, the organisation Democracy Workers Rights Center (DWRC), for example, has carried out initiatives during the year to create jobs and strengthen people’s ability to support themselves in the midst of the disaster, including through vocational training and short-term employment schemes. DEMOCRACY & HUMAN RIGHTS Photo: Pyalara Sanitation workers in Elbasan have long worked in poor conditions, with low wages and limited influence over their working conditions. Many of them belong to the Roma and Egyptian minorities and work in a sector that is often undervalued despite its crucial role in society. Through organising and dialogue, workers, civil society organisations and trade union actors succeeded in securing improvements during the year. The Youth Roma and Egyptian Movement (YREM) brought workers together to document the problems and formulate joint demands for fair wages and better compensation for night work. EQUALITY & WORKERS’ RIGHTS ALBANIA: BETTER WORKING CONDITIONS FOR MUNICIPAL SANITATION WORKERS Ahead of May Day, YREM brought together Elbasan municipality, waste management companies and trade unions for talks on the situation. The dialogue led to concrete results: pay rises of 12.5 per cent for waste transport workers, and a pledge of a 37.5 per cent increase for day work and 50 per cent for night work for street cleaners. The agreement means both better incomes and an important step towards stronger social dialogue between workers, companies and local authorities.
16 PALESTINE: FROM DISPLACEMENT TO SELF-SUFFICIENCY In the Nur Shams refugee camp in the West Bank, a group of displaced women have moved from a state of insecurity and dependency to greater self-confidence and self-sufficiency. Through leadership and vocational training, they have developed their skills, built networks and begun to formulate their own plans for the future. Over the course of the year, several of the women have been able to start contributing to their families’ liveli- hoods, set up small businesses, and even trained university students in their professional skills. The initiative is run by the Palme Center’s partner HDIP, a civil society organisation working to empower marginalised women and young people through education, networking and local advocacy. With a clear grassroots foundation, the organisation mobilises local groups to become active agents of change themselves and hold decision-makers to account. One of the participants is Fatima from Tul- karem. After taking part in HDIP’s economic empowerment programme, she developed her skills through vocational training and started her own business. With support from the organisa- tion, she has also moved from being a participant to becoming a mentor and training university students herself. Fatima’s journey shows how the combination of psychosocial support, education and economic empowerment can transform trauma into agency. Today, she is not only an entrepreneur – but a role model for other women in the camp and proof that even in the shadow of conflict, new opportu- nities can emerge. Photo: HDIP ZIMBABWE: DIALOGUE OPENED THE WAY FOR COOPERATION ON CIVIL SOCIETY CONDITIONS When a new law regulating the activities of civil society organisations was adopted, tensions between the government and civil society increased. Many organisations were concerned about how the law would affect their ability to operate and represent vulnerable groups. The Palme Center’s partner organi- sation, the independent think tank Zimbabwe Institute (ZI), then took the initiative to resume dialogue with the authorities. By bringing organisations together in a joint coordination group, the voice of civil society was strengthened and common positions could be developed. ZI also organised national dialogue meetings where civil society met with government representatives and relevant authorities. These discussions focused on the implications of the law and how the regulations could be designed to function more effectively in practice. The process led to a joint effort to develop principles and proposals for rules on how the law should be implemented. The government has also clarified registration procedures and shown greater openness to civil society’s perspectives. This work has helped to rebuild trust between civil society and the state. At the same time, it has crea- ted better conditions for organisations to continue working on issues such as democracy, gender equality and human rights in Zimbabwe. Photo: Zimbabwe Institute DEMOCRACY & HUMAN RIGHTS 16 Photo: TUCOSWA DEMOCRACY & HUMAN RIGHTS GENDER EQUALITY
17 THE PHILIPPINES: WOMEN POLITICIANS BUILD NEW ALLIANCES In the Philippines, local politics is often characterised by informal networks and personal dependencies, which makes it more difficult for women to gain influence. The Palme Center’s partner organisation, the Institute of Politics and Governance (IPG), has established the Women Power Hub initiative to strengthen women’s role in politics. In six local communities, female politicians and women’s organisations have begun to collaborate in new ways. Previously, many worked in isolation, with limited resources and small personal networks. Through the new initiative, they now meet regularly to formulate joint political priorities and plan advocacy work together. IPG has brought together local decision-makers and civil society organisations for training, mentoring and exchanges of experience on gender equality and inclusive governance. As a result, more women are now acting in a more coordinated manner and with greater knowledge of political processes. BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA: FROM CONFLICT TO DIALOGUE ON LABOUR RIGHTS When Bosnia and Herzegovina began imple- menting labour law reforms linked to the EU integration, political tensions in the country simultaneously increased. The issue of the minimum wage, in particular, caused conflict, and trust between the authorities, trade unions and civil society was fragile. In May 2025, the Palme Center, together with the Forum Left Initiative (FLI), took the initiative to bring together key stakeholders in Sarajevo. Over the course of a four-day programme, politici- ans, trade union representatives and civil society organisations met to discuss labour law, social dialogue and labour market reforms. The dialogue made it possible to discuss concrete solutions regarding minimum wage, labour inspections and how the reforms could be implemented more fairly. The initiative proved particularly important for the decision to raise the minimum wage to 1,000 KM in 2025. By creating a forum for open dialogue, the work helped to strengthen trust between the parties and create better conditions for fair labour market reforms. EQUALITY & WORKERS’ RIGHTS Photo: IPG Photo: FLI ESWATINI: TRADE UNION CAMPAIGN WON HOUSING ALLOWANCES FOR LOW PAID WORKERS In Eswatini, many public sector workers live on low incomes in overcrowded and substandard housing. Following pressure from trade unions, the govern- ment decided to introduce a housing allowance of E2,000 per month for non-academic staff and other low-income earners in the public sector. Behind this success is the national trade union confederation TUCOSWA, together with its affiliated unions ATUSWA, NAWUSHI, NAPSAWU and SNAT. Through campaigns, negotiations and joint demands, they drew attention to the workers’ difficult living EQUALITY & WORKERS’ RIGHTS GENDER EQUALITY conditions and called for better terms. They highligh- ted how many workers on the lowest pay scales are forced to live in simple huts or temporary accommo- dation whilst the cost of living rises. This allowance represents an important step in a country where nearly 60 per cent of the population lives in poverty. At the same time, this success demonstrates how strong trade union organisation can improve workers’ conditions and contribute to greater equality.
18 THAILAND: LOCAL COMMUNITIES DRIVE NEW CLIMATE POLICY TO ADDRESS FOREST FIRES Recurring forest fires in northern Thailand have become increasingly severe as a result of climate change. They disproportionately affect local communities through rising health problems, damaged ecosystems and threats to livelihoods. At the same time, those most affected have had limited influence over the political decisions shaping efforts to prevent and manage the fires. With support from the Palme Center, local communities in Chiang Mai province received training on climate change, environmental impacts and forest fire management. Through the training, participants developed their own policy proposals based on their experiences and needs. The proposals were presented to a progressive parliamentary partner in Thailand, who took the initiative further and transformed the recommen- dations into a bill. The bill was passed in two of three readings in the Thai parliament before parliament was dissolved in December 2025. At the same time, a concrete breakthrough was achieved at regional level: Lamphun’s provincial administration adop- ted both the training methodology and the policy proposals as the basis for its own strategy to tackle forest fires. This work has brought about a significant change. Local communities that previously attempted to fight the fires themselves have now been given the opportunity to influence the policies governing climate adaptation and environ- mental work. By combining public education, local engagement and parliamentary influence, the initiative has demonstrated how climate policy can be developed from the bottom up – where those affected by climate change also have a say in decisions on how to address them. Photo: Phawat Pengwanpuk JUST TRANSITION As coal-fired power in the Pelagonia region is phased out, concern is growing among workers and people in local communities. At the energy company REK Bitola, relations between manage- ment and trade union representatives have long been characterised by mistrust and uncertainty about what the transition will mean for jobs and livelihoods. Together with the Palme Center, our partner organisation MKC Bitola created a forum for dialogue within the Local Economic and Social Councils (LESC). In 2025, representatives of company management and trade unions gathe- red for the first time for a joint discussion on the future energy transition. The discussions provided a space for workers to openly voice their concerns about losing their jobs and facing reduced incomes, whilst com- pany management acknowledged the need for better dialogue regarding the changes ahead. Experiences from other European coal regions demonstrated how a just transition can best be achieved through collaboration between compa- nies, trade unions and the local community. The meeting marked a clear breakthrough. The focus shifted from concerns and conflicts to how the transition can be managed collecti- vely. As a next step, an international exchange of experiences with trade unions from other coal-mining regions in Europe is now being planned. By establishing dialogue between workers, industry and civil society, this work contributes to a fairer climate transition in which people are given a say in their future. Photo: MKC Bitola NORTH MACEDONIA: BREAKTHROUGH IN DIALOGUE BETWEEN TRADE UNIONS AND ENERGY COMPANIES 18 JUST TRANSITION
19 AFRICA: TRADE UNIONS TAKE THEIR PLACE IN AFRICA’S TRADE POLICY The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) covers over a billion people and could have a major impact on jobs, industry and economic development across the continent. Despite this, trade unions were long excluded from both the negotiations and the implementation of the agreement. Thanks to support from the Palme Center’s partner organisation, the Labour Research Service (LRS), the situation has now begun to change. Trade unions in nine African countries have strengthened their knowledge of trade policy, developed joint demands and pushed to gain influence over how the agreement is to be implemented. This work has yielded concrete results. In both Rwanda and Namibia, trade unions have now secured seats on the national committees responsible for implementing the AfCFTA. This means that, for the first time, workers’ perspectives are represented in key decisions on trade and economic policy. This change marks an important step towards trade policy in Africa taking greater account of working condi- tions, employment and social justice. UKRAINE: CAMPAIGN RAISES AWARENESS OF THE RIGHTS OF BLIND WAR VETERANS Russia’s full-scale war has left thousands of Ukrainians with severe injuries. One group that is often overlooked is soldiers who have lost their sight. The Palme Center’s partner, SD Platform, has therefore launched a cam- paign to ensure that blind veterans receive the support and rehabilitation they need to lead a dignified life. The organisation, which works towards a society built on freedom, justice and solidarity, highlights social issues in a context where these are often pushed into the background. Through the campaign, SD Platform is pushing for concrete reforms: long- term financial support, improved rehabilitation and access to care and rehabilitation throughout the country. They also work to ensure that public spaces, transport and government services are accessible to people with visual impairments. The initiative helps to raise the profile of a forgot- ten group – and to shape Ukraine’s reconstruction into a more inclusive society where everyone can participate on equal terms. Photo: SD Platform Joel Odigie, General Secretary of ITUC Africa, at a press confe- rence during an AfCFTA workshop in Kenya, surrounded by union leaders from ITUC affiliate organisations and regional trade union federations. Photo: LRS EQUALITY & WORKERS’ RIGHTS DEMOCRACY & HUMAN RIGHTS EQUALITY In the run-up to the general election, civil society created new forums for interaction between voters and political candidates. Through the POP Network, citizens were given the opportunity to ask questions directly to politicians and raise local priorities. In ten municipalities, public forums were organi- sed where more than 42 candidates met with over 700 citizens in direct dialogue. The discussions were broadcast live and reached over 23,000 viewers online. The focus was on issues such as governance, transparency, social services and gender equality. The format was based on local dialogues where resi- dents first identified their most important issues. During the forums, they were then able to demand concrete answers from the candidates. The initiative helped shift the election campaign from political rhetoric to substantive issues, whilst strengthening citizens’ ability to participate in democracy and hold politicians to account. ALBANIA: CIVIL SOCIETY STRENGTHENED DIALOGUE IN THE RUN-UP TO THE ELECTION DEMOCRACY & HUMAN RIGHTS
20 DR CONGO: CIVIL SOCIETY STRENGTHENS DEMOCRACY AND RIGHTS Through the Palme Center’s programme in the Demo- cratic Republic of the Congo, civil society has gained greater opportunities to influence policy, strengthen democracy and improve people’s living conditions. During the 2022–2025 programme period, several partner organisations have contributed to tangible results in the areas of women’s political participation, political accountability and workers’ rights. With support for organisational development and capacity building, the women’s organisation CAFCO has held its first general assembly in many years and trained newly elected female municipal councillors. Their advocacy work helped increase the proportion of female candidates in the 2023 election from 11.68 to 17 per cent. The youth movements Filimbi and LUCHA have strengthened grassroots organising and developed new methods to scrutinise and hold local authorities to account. At the same time, CODELT has contri- buted to important legislative reforms concerning natural resources, forests and land rights through legal expertise and strategic advocacy. Through the partner organisation CONAFED, a new solidarity-based social security system has also been established for civil society actors and informal workers. In October 2025, representatives from civil society, trade unions and cooperatives gathered to adopt statutes and elect the leadership for the system, which covers pensions, health protection and survivor’s benefits. Trade unions have also made progress. For the first time in many years, free and democratic trade union elections have been held in workplaces, strengthening workers’ representation and opportu- nities for dialogue with employers. Together, these results demonstrate how a strong civil society can create new opportunities for demo- cracy, social justice and citizen influence in the DRC. BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA: PODCAST GIVES WORKERS A VOICE In Bosnia and Herzegovina, issues relating to working conditions and trade union rights have long struggled to gain a foothold in the public debate. Traditional media rarely give space to workers’ perspectives. To change this, Božo Marić, president of the Public Administration Trade Union of Republika Srpska, launched the podcast “Bez rukavica” – “Without Gloves”. With support from the Palme Center, a new platform was created for open discussions on labour law, social justice and current political issues. The podcast has quickly gained significant traction. Within the first 40 days, the programme had already reached around 1.5 million views on YouTube and social media. The initiative creates a new public arena where workers, politicians and employers can engage in dialogue. It demonstrates how trade unions can make workers’ conditions more visible in the public debate. Photo: CAFCO DEMOCRACY & HUMAN RIGHTS Božo Marić with Anđelka Kuzmić, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, and Water Management of the Republika Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Photo: Public Administration Trade Union of the Republika Srpska GENDER EQUALITY EQUALITY & WORKERS’ RIGHTS Photo: ETU
21 SOUTH AFRICA: SCHOOL MEAL DISTRIBUTORS WIN RIGHT TO UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS In South Africa, so-called food handlers serve school meals to over nine million children every day as part of the national school feeding programme. Despite the importance of their work, these women have long been regarded as ‘volunteers’ and have been denied access to basic rights such as unemployment benefits. When many contracts were due to expire in 2025, the food handlers organised themselves and turned their individual struggles into a collective fight. With support from the Palme Center’s partner organisa- tion, the Labour Research Service (LRS), they organi- sed protests outside employment offices (which also handle labour law and social insurance), ran social media campaigns and launched a petition. The campaign led to tangible results. For the first time, food delivery workers were able to access unemployment benefits. At the same time, the Department for Education removed the word ‘volun- teer’ from the job title. PARAGUAY: BROAD ALLIANCE CHALLENGES POWER MONOPOLY Ahead of the upcoming local elections, the País Solidario party has played a key role in bringing together progressive, liberal and conservative forces within a broad democratic alliance in the capital, Asunción. A total of 16 parties agreed during the year on a joint process for selecting a candidate, which reduced fragmentation and laid the groundwork for a stronger opposition. The process required difficult compromises and the establishment of common ground rules. Through the support of the Palme Center, including training in negotiation and alliance-building, key actors have been strengthened in their roles as candidates and negotiators. The result is an important step towards breaking a long-standing monopoly on power and paving the way for increased political competition, reduced clientelism and a more functional democracy in Paraguay. Photo: SD Platform Photo: LRS EQUALITY & WORKERS’ RIGHTS DEMOCRACY & HUMAN RIGHTS In a region characterised by polarisation, the Palme Center’s partner ETU has strengthened dialogue between political parties through training and the exchange of experiences on coalition-building ahead of elections in countries including South Africa, Namibia and Mozambique. These initiatives provided the parties with practical tools to manage different election outco- mes and prepare for cross-party cooperation. Ahead of the elections, ETU worked closely with governing parties on scenario analysis and prepara- tions for different outcomes, as well as training in coa- lition-building. Following network meetings, concrete support was also provided on how parties could act in practice in the event of a changed political landscape. The results have been clear. In South Africa, the ANC quickly accepted the election result when the party received less than 50 per cent of the vote for the first time and was able to swiftly form a unity government for the first time. In Mozambique, established channels of dialogue between youth leagues helped to keep communication open following a violent election and facilitated a national dialogue. Through targeted support, ETU has strengthened parties’ ability to manage political differences through dialogue and cooperation. SOUTH AFRICA: EDUCATION STRENGTHENS DIALOGUE AND POLITICAL COOPERATION DEMOCRACY & HUMAN RIGHTS
22 COLOMBIA: YOUNG PEOPLE SHAPING LOCAL POLICY FOR A JUST TRANSITION In several of Colombia’s most vulnerable regions – Amazonas, Chocó and Sierra Nevada – the natural environment is under threat from deforestation, mining and climate change. At the same time, young people often lack the opportunity to influence the political decisions that determine their future. The Palme Center’s partner organisation, VozEs, is working to change this by training and mobilising young environmental leaders. In 2025, 800 young people from eight rural municipalities in Chocó took part in a training programme on the environment, democracy and political advocacy. The programme was carried out in collaboration with regional autho- rities and the Pedagogical University of Colombia and forms part of a wider initiative to train over 3,000 young environmental leaders in the coming years. A key part of the work is linking the training to real political processes. Following the training, the participants developed their own policy proposals for a green economy and presented them in dialogue with mayors, regional authorities and national ministries. Several of the ideas have already begun to be integrated into local development plans. The initiative is particularly significant as it brought together, for the first time, eight munici- palities in Chocó around a joint programme for the environment and youth participation – in a region where cooperation otherwise mainly revolves around mining and industrial projects. Through community education methods and close collaboration with decision-makers, VozEs strengthens young people’s opportunities to influ- ence development in their communities. In regions characterised by poverty, conflict and organised crime, this work contributes both to protecting the Amazon and to strengthening democracy by encoura- ging more young people to engage in community decision-making. Photo: VozEs JUST TRANSITION 22 In Serbia, coal-dependent local communities risk having limited influence over the green transition. When national plans began to be drawn up, there was a risk that the process would become overly technical and top-down, without sufficient consideration for jobs, local development and the people most affected. During the year, the Palme Center’s partner organisation, the Democratic Dialogue Network (DDN), helped to change this. Together with BOŠ and CEPLOR, they brought together civil society, local authorities, experts and institutions in a joint process to promote a fairer and more inclusive transition. There was a particular focus on the coal- mining region of Lazarevac, where local stake- holders took part in focus groups and open discussions on the challenges and opportunities of the transition. The work resulted in a policy document guiding Lazarevac’s development in the climate transition – with a focus on employ- ment, the local economy and social sustainabi- lity. It was handed over to the municipality as a basis for future planning and decision-making. The initiative helped to broaden the issue from a narrow expert discussion to a wider public and political process, with increased opportunities for affected people to influence their future. Photo: DDN SERBIA: CIVIL SOCIETY GAVE COAL-MINING REGIONS A VOICE IN THE CLIMATE TRANSITION JUST TRANSITION
23 WE ENGAGE AND INFLUENCE All the activities we carry out with our partners around the world contribute to shaping public opi- nion, influencing decision-makers and driving social development. At the same time, active communica- tion and advocacy efforts have been carried out in Sweden and the EU throughout the year. The year continued to be shaped by the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, and their negative impact on the rules-based international order. The humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza and the Israeli government’s gross violations of international law prompted the Palme Center to organise demonstrations, publish opinion pieces, arrange seminars and invite guests from Israel and Palestine. We called on the Swedish government to resume its support for UNRWA and to work towards the EU freezing the Association Agreement with Israel for as long as serious viola- tions of international law continue. During the year, we also participated in, or co-organised, a number of demonstrations against Russia’s illegal war of aggression in Ukraine. Another focus of our advocacy work was the government’s passive foreign policy, which increa- singly prioritises Swedish interests and the imme- diate region. The Palme Center also criticised the repeated cuts to development aid and the fact that Sweden is rapidly withdrawing from the world at the expense of the most vulnerable. The deteriorating security situation and the esca- lating arms race were another key area where we made our voice heard. During the spring, a campaign ‘Rusta för fred’ was carried out, featuring opinion pieces, digital initiatives, seminars and a presence at the Social Democratic Party’s party conference. The aim was to broaden the security debate from military solutions to also encompass diplomacy, disarmament and preventive peace work. Active advocacy work has also been carried out on many other issues. We have drawn attention to the military junta’s abuses in Myanmar, human rights violations in Türkiye, the situation in Syria following the fall of the Assad regime, and the conflict in eas- tern DR Congo. We have expressed solidarity with democratic and trade union movements in Serbia, Albania and Hong Kong, and highlighted the need for equality, reasonable working conditions and a just transition to a low-carbon economy. For several years, the Palme Center has been campaigning for the introduction of an international law against ecocide, that is, serious environmental crimes. Olof Palme was an early advocate of linking environmental destruction to security and politics. In May, the Social Democratic Party conference resolved to work for ecocide to be established as an international crime. We drew the red line for Gaza In June, the Palme Center and Oxfam Sweden took the initiative for a major demonstration in central Stockholm. Around thirty orga- nisations joined the initiative. By dressing in red, we signalled that the red line in Gaza had long since been crossed – and that Sweden must act in line with international law. More than 15,000 people gathered at Norra Bantor- get and marched to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where joint demands for a ceasefire, humanitarian access and respect for international law were presented. Oscar Ernerot, Secretary General of the Palmecenter, speaks at a rally in support of Ukraine.
24 ACTIVE POLICY AND ADVOCACY WORK FOR A FAIR AND GREEN TRANSITION Alliance for Climate Justice (ARK) The Palme Center continued to coordinate the work within ARK. During the year a popular edu- cation project was launched together with ABF Skåne in three municipalities, where civil society and residents developed proposals for sustainable development locally and globally. Climate Parliament 2025 The Palme Center supported the Climate Parlia- ment 2025, where about 400 participants gathe- red to discuss how civil society and academia can mobilise for a fair and ambitious climate policy. 10 Principles for a Just Climate Transition Together with Solidar, the Palme Center contributed to the report A Global Just Transition Narrative, which highlights ten principles for a globally just climate transition, based on two years of dialogue in more than 20 countries. Roundtable talks in Namibia In April, the Palme Center brought together civil society and trade unions in Namibia to discuss the investment in green hydrogen. The discussion resulted in a report on how the industry can deve- lop with democratic influence and good working conditions. The future of trade and aid policy A new initiative was launched together with busi- ness, trade unions, civil society and researchers to develop evidence-based policies for sustainable development, justice and democracy. Global conference for young politicians In September, 25 young politicians from 19 countries participated in workshops and discus- sions on progressive solutions to the climate and environmental crisis. New visions for sustainable welfare A “language festival” was organized on wellbeing economics together with researchers and civil society to discuss which concepts can build broad support. During the year a workshop and an ABF study circle on sustainable economics were also held. INCREASED COOPERATION WITH INTERNATIONAL POLICY ACTORS We are increasingly collaborating with like-minded Euro- pean policy actors. With the progressive think tank FEPS we have highlighted the need for a feminist foreign policy and initiated a new network of politicians and experts in the EU and Africa. The aim is to create a forum where progressive actors can coordinate on European policies affecting Africa. Three roundtable meetings were held online focusing on reforms for green industrialization and how EU policy needs to be adapted to African needs. Col- laborations also continue within the UNited for project on how the UN’s role and work for global development can be strengthened. With the progressive European civil society cooperation organisation Solidar, we have notably pushed for EU to work on a just climate transition and an agenda for a globally just green transition. ACTIVE WORK TO ADDRESS THE DEMOCRACY CRISIS Work to address the shrinking space for civil society inten- sified during the year. In connection with Sida’s application process for civil society support, the labour movement was suddenly excluded despite meeting all requirements. The foreign aid minister stated the decision was directly aimed at the Palme Center. This led to wide-ranging public cam- paigning and mobilisation, with significant media coverage. The exclusion highlights a broader trend in which large parts of civil society are being stigmatised, funding is being restricted, and democratic space is shrinking. The Palme Center continued its participation in the Democracy Network, bringing together around fifty Swedish organisations from civil society, trade unions and popular education. A new collaboration was also initiated with Södertörn University as part of the research project Contested Democracy. Together, the conference Global Challenges for Civil Society: Authoritarian Tendencies and Funding Restrictions was organised, focusing on democra- tic backsliding also in established democracies. On 10–11 April, the Palme Center, together with the International Peace Bureau and the ITUC, organised a conference on how international cooperation, international law and diplomacy can be strengthened as alternatives to war and arms build-up. The digital conference brought together over 200 experts, trade union representatives and civil society actors. Speakers included Jan Eliasson, Annika Söder, Jordania Ureña from the ITUC and UN expert Cecilia M. Bailliet.
25 An international democracy conference was held at the Palme Center’s premises in October together with other Swedish party-affiliated organizations within the Political Party Peer Network. Participants from around twenty countries — experts, researchers and politicians — gathered to discuss how to respond to the global democratic backsliding and the role politi- cal parties play in strengthening democratic insti- tutions. Over two days the conference addressed, among other things, disinformation, artificial intelli- gence, authoritarian strategies, and how international cooperation can help defend and develop democracy. Alongside meetings and events, digital communi- cation remains the backbone of the Palme Center’s broader communications work. The issues that generated the highest engagement across our digital channels during the year were the genocide in Gaza and the Palme Center’s exclusion from Swedish civil society funding. June was therefore also the month with the highest website traffic, with page views increasing by over 667%. Facebook remains the largest platform (18,843 followers) with 1.3 million impressions last year. Instagram is the fastest-growing platform (+34.2% to a total of 5,368 followers). During the year our impressions there also rose to 467,000, and the number of personal accounts we reached on the platform increased by 219.2% to about 121,000 impressions. Our top post on X had 108,000 impressions. The process of leaving X is proceeding step by step, and during the year our follower count on Bluesky increased. INTERNATIONAL ENGAGEMENT ON SOCIAL MEDIA The Palme Center is part of the European collabo- rative project Feminist Foreign Policy Progressive Voices Collective, which was established in late 2023 by FEPS to promote the positive development of feminist foreign policy in Europe and globally. The collective brings together numerous European ministers, Members of the European Parliament, academics, and civil society representatives from both the Global South and North. Since its incep- tion, seven policy documents have been produced addressing feminist foreign policy and security, including how feminist principles can be applied within security and defense policy. The publications also highlight issues related to resources and capacity building, such as funding for feminist organizations. In 2025, the collective intensified its efforts to strengthen feminist cooperation in the areas of justice, peace, and security, and to link this to the EU’s upcoming budget framework for the period 2028–2034. FEMINIST FOREIGN POLICY Solidarity campaign After Sida’s negative decision in June, the Palme Center quickly launched a solidarity campaign to mobilise support for the labour movement’s international work, with a particular focus on fundraising. During the summer we highlighted examples of how our partner organisations are affected. Many of them also shared their own stories about what the cooperation with the Palme Center means for their work.
26 The Palme Center’s programme activities contri- bute to a large number of meetings and events around the world across all our political priorities. Experts, activists, decision-makers and rights-hol- ders gather here to exchange experiences, coordi- nate and create change. Active work is also carried out in Sweden together with our member organisa- tions and other close partners. Over the course of the year, this has taken shape through seminars, roundtable discussions, digital conferences, and public demonstrations. Palme Day 2025 in Gothenburg: New visions! The Swedish labour movement’s annual meeting place for international solidarity work, Palme Day, was held in Gothenburg. This year’s theme was “New visions – how we build a green, peaceful and democratic welfare society for all.” During the day trade union representatives, researchers, politici- ans, international guests and engaged members met to discuss the climate crisis as a question of justice and democracy and the labour movement’s role in shaping a sustainable society. Standing Together visited Sweden Standing Together is a rapidly growing grassroots movement bringing together both Jewish and Palestinian citizens in Israel in the work for peace, equality and an end to the occupation. In February the movement’s spokespeople Rula Daood and Alon Lee Green visited Sweden. During the visit they met members of parliament, the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Swedish civil society organisations. A packed seminar was also held at Kulturhuset in Stockholm, focusing on possibilities for peaceful coexistence and how closer cooperation between Israelis and Palestinians can contribute to a just and lasting peace. Lucia demonstration against nuclear weapons In December, a torchlight procession was orga- nised in protest against nuclear weapons and to highlight the need for legislation banning nuclear weapons on Swedish territory. The demonstration was carried out together with several peace and civil society organisations and gathered partici- pants in central Stockholm. Oscar Ernerot was one of the speakers. EVENTS THAT CREATED MEETINGS, MEANING AND ACTION Lucia demonstration against nuclear weapons. The “Read the Children’s Names” manifestation is held in Stockholm to honour the children killed in Gaza. Palme Day 2025 in Gothenburg. UN Day seminar. Palme Day 2025 in Gothenburg. Standing Together visited Sweden.
27 WE EMPOWER PARTNERS AND MEMBERS An important part of the Palme Center’s activities is to offer our partners, members and other close collaborators opportunities for cooperation and shared learning. The Palme Resource Centre and the Palme Academy are our platforms for exchan- ging experiences and developing methods for how we can work even better together to change the world. Here we offer methodological materials, organise trainings and conduct other capacity-buil- ding activities. The Palme Center continuously works to strengthen thematic knowledge within our five political priorities: Democracy & Human Rights, Equality & Workers’ Rights, Gender Equality, Just Transition, and Peace & Dialogue. This is done by regularly organising meetings, seminars, roundta- ble discussions and conferences with and for our partners, members and allies. We also continuously work to develop our practical methods for creating change. The Palme Center’s core approaches are grassroots and trade union organising; organisational development and internal democracy; popular education and advocacy; and alliance-building. During the year, Seminar with Roshan Rydell.
28 for example, the training Popular Education and Effective Learning for Social Transformation was developed. It provides guidance on how to plan and deliver effective, engaging and participant-centred trainings that lead to concrete learning and change. It is aimed at partner organisations and others working with popular education, organisational development and learning. Furthermore, important perspectives such as environment, conflict sensitivity, anti-corruption and gender equality must always be integrated into our activities. They are key areas for development and to ensure that we do not contribute to the opposite. They are therefore a recurring part of workshops and trainings with our partners. During the year extensive work was also carried out to further develop tools and course designs for how we and our partners strengthen gender equality within our own organisations and activities. We have also continued to highlight and develop methods for monitoring, results reporting and risk assessment — central parts of an effective, results-driven programme management. During the year, for example, four training modules in security risk management were launched: organisational security, physical security, information security and psychosocial aspects of security management. As development funding has become more constrained and uncertain, the need for knowledge and capacity in resource mobilisation and fund- raising has increased. To support the long-term sustainability of our partner organisations, we have therefore stepped up our efforts in this area. During the autumn, a comprehensive partner survey was conducted to identify needs and priori- ties. In 2026, this support will be further developed, including through a tailored training series. In Türkiye, the Palme Center, together with trade union member organisations, runs a project to strengthen unions’ work for a just climate transition. Trade unions are crucial for anchoring the transition and making it socially sustainable. In March a training was held for members of the union Basin Is, which organises journalists and print workers. For many it was their first time participating in trade union training. Participants received in-depth knowledge about trade union rights, workplace safety and organising, as well as how climate and environmen- tal issues affect their professions and conditions. After the training, participants reported they were better able to explain the climate crisis and its consequences in Türkiye. They also described an increased ability to discuss how the transition can be implemented in a way that takes workers’ conditions into account, and which skills are required to actively contribute to it. In November the Palme Center also brought together around twenty representatives from our new global trade union network for an initial joint meeting on just transition. The network serves as a platform for continued exchange of experience and development, including related areas such as gender equality and trade union–political cooperation. JUST TRANSITION WITH TRADE UNION PARTNERS
29 MEETINGS, ACTIVITIES AND COURSES WITH OUR MEMBERS During the year, we engaged actively with our member organisations by delivering lectures, participating in seminars and highlighting key international issues at events organised by our members. This has included everything from presenting political developments in different parts of the world, to taking part in solidarity demonstrations and organising seminars on current issues. The Labour movement’s International Course The Palme Center co-organised two international folk high school courses at Viskadalen Folk High School. The spring course was held digitally and focused on the Israel–Palestine conflict, with lectures from experts both at the Palme Center and from the region. The autumn course, themed How We Fix a Broken World, addressed global development issues from a broad perspective, with in-depth sessions on, among other topics, the Middle East, Ukraine and climate change. The course consisted of two online sessions and one in-person weekend at Viskadalen. Both courses combined expert lectures with expe- rience exchange and discussions. Palme Center staff contributed as lecturers alongside external experts. EXCHANGE OF EXPERIENCES BETWEEN POLITICAL PARTIES Democratic parties around the world can learn from each other’s experiences and working methods. During the year, the Palme Academy organised several exchanges and trainings for representatives of social democratic sister parties, focusing on strengthe- ning policy development, organising and internal democracy. Policy development in practice In December, representatives from five countries took part in a three-day exchange on policy development — from needs analysis to implementation. Through interactive seminars with Swedish experts, partici- pants worked on their own political visions and how these can be translated into concrete policy. Following the training, participants left with both practical methods and new perspectives on policy development, as well as contacts for continued exchange between the parties. Congress seminar in Gothenburg In May, a larger exchange was held in connection with the Social Democrats’ party congress in Gothenburg. The aim was to provide a practical insight into how party democracy, policy development and leadership elections work in practice. Through lectures, discus- sions and participation in the congress proceedings, participants gained new ideas and tools to strengthen internal democracy and policy development in their own parties. Ideology and political organising During the autumn two seminars were held on ideology and political organising, with political secretaries and vice chairs from several sister parties. The first, What is Social Democracy, covered the role of ideology, how it is shaped and why it is central to political work. The second focused on how successful political mass movements are built and function in practice. The seminars provided space for exchange of experiences around common challenges and strengthened partici- pants’ understanding of how ideology and organising can be turned into concrete political work.
30 MANAGEMENT REPORT AND ANNUAL REPORT 2025
31 The Olof Palme International Center (the Palme Center) is a non-profit organisation whose main purpose is to work in the spirit of Olof Palme for democracy, human rights, social justice, sustai- nability and peace. The organisation was founded in 1992 and serves as a platform for cooperation on international issues within the Swedish labour movement. The Palme Center brings together 26 member organisations and is tasked with supporting their international activities. Together the organisation carries out development cooperation with civil society organisations, trade unions and political parties in Southern Africa, the Middle East and North Africa, Asia, Europe and Latin America. In addition, the Palme Center conducts advocacy on international issues, disseminates knowledge about global development, and raises funds to finance its operations. The Palme Center’s board is appointed by the member organisations at the annual representative meeting. A significant part of the project work is financed by grants from Sida and the EU. The Palme Center’s own contributions to Sida- and EU-funded projects are covered through the organisation’s fundraising activities. SIGNIFICANT EVENTS DURING THE YEAR The year was marked by significant uncertainty and complex global changes, but also important progress. The Palme Center notes a continued strong need for and commitment to international solidarity work. At the same time, wars and conflicts in several parts of the world, as well as uncertainty about institutional funding for development coope- ration, have influenced the organisation’s priorities and activities during the year. Organisation A new vision for the Palme Center was developed during the year, with a clear ambition to be a uni- fying, flexible and competent actor for progressive change in a time of major global challenges. The organisation has continued to develop its fundrai- sing and resource mobilisation activities in order to broaden funding and strengthen financial indepen- dence. In the autumn an organisational change was implemented to adapt operations to altered funding conditions. The transition involves a shift from a grant-based working model to an increased focus on diversified financing and active resource mobilisation. In 2025 a new fundraising manager was hired, enabling more strategic work and the establish- ment of new working methods. This contributed to an increase in the number of private donors during the year. Through increased engagement from member organisations, the Palme Center was also able to strengthen support to partner organisations in particularly vulnerable situations, including in Palestine, Myanmar and Colombia. An event of great significance for the organi- sation, both financially and operationally, was the outcome of Sida’s application process under the civil society (CSO) strategy. On 28 February 2025 the Palme Center submitted an application, but was excluded from the subsequent process in June. In July, an agreement was signed between the Palme Center and Sida on a responsible phase-out of CSO activities through 31 December 2027. The agreement covered approximately SEK 60 million for 2026 and approximately SEK 30 million for 2027. For the Palme Center, which for more than 30 years has been a strategic partner to Sida within civil society support, this represents a significant change to the organisation’s funding and activities. Programme Activities During the year there was great uncertainty about future funding from Sida, which affected planning and programme development. Against this back- ground, the Palme Center has prioritised resource mobilisation, development of new programmes and ensuring that programme activities are organisatio- nally prepared for a rapidly changing environment. In 2025 applications were submitted with a total value of approximately SEK 470 million, of which just over SEK 100 million have been granted. Four applications are still under review and are expected to be decided in 2026. Activities in Eastern Europe continued to be shaped by the war in Ukraine. The Palme Center has further developed programme work in the region, with particular focus on strengthening democracy efforts in increasingly repressive contexts. New initiatives have been taken in collaboration with other Swedish party affiliated organisations. In the Western Balkans activities have proceeded accor- ding to plan. An application has been submitted to and approved by the EU delegation in Serbia in cooperation with Kommunal. The initiative focuses on combating discrimination, harassment and violence in the workplace. In the Middle East and North Africa, the situation in Palestine continued to deteriorate during the year, while the war in Gaza was ongoing. The Palme MANAGEMENT REPORT
32 Center’s partner organisations have continued their work in the West Bank despite increased insecurity and significant movement restrictions. Fundraising for Palestine has continued during the year and enabled support for activities in Gaza. In Türkiye activities have focused on trade union rights, a just climate transition and peace and dialogue. A network meeting addressing, among other things, digitalisation and the role of civil society was held and provides a basis for continued capacity buil- ding. The Palme Center has also organised dialogue with Syrian community representatives about an inclusive and peaceful transition in Syria. In Asia the concluded Swedish foreign aid stra- tegy for Myanmar has continued to complicate the Palme Center’s ability to secure funding for parts of its regional operations. Despite this, partner orga- nisations in Myanmar have continued to operate under very difficult conditions, document human rights violations and help raise awareness of deve- lopments in the country. Activities in other parts of the region have at the same time developed well. In the Philippines and Thailand partner organisations have contributed to results in democracy, gender equality, workers’ rights and just transition. In Southern Africa activities continued during the year, with a particular focus on resource mobili- sation and development of new projects. An app- lication for support for a just transition has been submitted to the EU delegation in South Africa. In the Democratic Republic of Congo the deteriorating security situation in the eastern parts of the coun- try has affected three of the Palme Center’s partner organisations. At the same time the Palme Center has developed a new programme proposal ahead of the government’s upcoming country strategy. Together with trade union think tanks in Eswatini, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe, the Palme Center has also produced a report on labour market issues with accompanying reform proposals. In Latin America the Palme Center has continued to develop work on environment and just transi- tion, with particular focus on strengthening youth and women’s participation in political processes. Through training, organising and dialogue with local and regional decision-makers, participants have developed policy proposals for a just transition, several of which have been integrated into local development plans. At the same time, through regional and national seminars and networks, the Palme Center has contributed to strengthening political parties’ capacity to develop collaborations, coalitions and joint reform proposals. Policy and Advocacy The Palme Center’s activities contributed to influence public opinion, decision-makers and societal development both in partner countries and in Sweden and the EU. During the year active policy, advocacy and communications work was carried out within the organisation’s priority areas. The year was marked by the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East and their consequences for the international legal order. The Palme Center highligh- ted developments through opinion pieces, seminars, international visits and demonstrations, and by issuing demands to decision-makers. The organisa- tion also took part in demonstrations in response to Russia’s illegal war of aggression in Ukraine. A particular focus has been on peace and secu- rity issues. Through the campaign Rusta för fred the Palme Center has helped broaden the security policy debate to also include diplomacy, disarma- ment and preventive work. In April the conference Common Security 2025 was organised together with international partners. Work on a just transition and workers’ rights has been central. The Palme Center has participated in initiatives such as Klimatriksdagen and coordi- nated work within the Alliance for Climate Justice. Together with international partners the organi- sation has contributed to policy development and dialogues on a just and green transition globally. Cooperation with European policy actors has been strengthened, including through joint initiatives within the EU on just transition and relations with Africa. Efforts to safeguard the space for civil society have intensified, which has also contributed to increa- sed visibility in the media and public debate. Digital communication has been central to spreading knowledge and mobilising engagement. After changed conditions for the organisation’s civil society support, a solidarity campaign was laun- ched which contributed to increase engagement. Fundraising During the period, fundraising activities have had a particular focus on events linked to member organisations’ congresses and annual meetings, where funds were raised primarily for Palestine. After the earthquake in Myanmar, the Palme Center was able to quickly launch an appeal with support from, among others, Akademikerförbundet SSR, ABF, LIVS, SEKO, Fastighets and Kommunal. During the year, the work was further developed through a more
33 targeted outreach to donors, digital campaigns and activities in connection with major events orga- nised by member organisations. A telemarketing campaign at the end of the year resulted in more than 200 new monthly donors. Government cuts have also led to increased support for the Palme Center, including an inflow of new monthly donors. The Palme Center has also developed new forms of engagement during the year to increase member organisations’ participation. The aim is to facilitate support for specific political issues in different regions, and to strengthen fundraising for partner organisations. New Solidarity Networks have been established for Southern Africa, Palestine, the Ama- zon and Myanmar, with participation from several member organisations. SIGNIFICANT EVENTS AFTER THE FINANCIAL YEAR On February 1, the Palme Center launched an organi- sational change aimed at giving additional strength to resource mobilisation and fundraising. The new organisation comprises 57 positions and three departments: the Department for Organisational Support and Finance, the Department for Policy and Engagement, and the Department for Programmes and International Partnerships. In January Sida announced a change to the agreement for the Palme Center’s phase-out of CSO support until June 30, 2026, which shortens the period to six months instead of the original agreement to phase out until December 31, 2027. The proposed change corresponds to a budget reduction of about 25 percent in total in 2026 and around 40 percent in 2027. The Palme Center has therefore immediately begun extensive work to review the organisation and budget. The contract change means that all project activities under the CSO framework will cease in June 2026, which has significant consequences for about 100 international partner organisations that risk being left without funding on short notice. In March a meeting was held between the Palme Center and Sida and the contract process is expected to be negotiated further during spring 2026. On March 28 Israel and the USA launched a war of aggression against Iran, which has created signi- ficant instability across the Middle East and risks having major impacts on the Palme Center’s and partners’ work in the region. Nina Ünesi from S-kvinnor resigned from the Palme Center board in November 2025. Sofia Eriks- son from Kommunal entered the board as alternate member in her place. Annika Strandhäll from S-kvin- nor was co-opted to the board in February 2026. RESULTS AND POSITION For the 2025 financial year the Palme Center reports a surplus of SEK 1,053 thousand (-5,122 thousand) before financial items and SEK 3,562 thousand (-4,458 thousand) after financial items. The result is distributed as SEK 4,462 thousand (–5,853 thousand) for activities in the Solidarity Fund and SEK –900 thousand (1,394 thousand) for other Palme Center activities. Withdrawals from the operations and investment fund for the year amount to SEK -590 thousand (0 thousand). EMPLOYEES The Palme Center’s head office is located at Svea- vägen 68 in Stockholm, Sweden. During the year, the Palme Center employed an average of 32 (33) people. In addition, there were 11 (11) local employ- ees in a number of countries of operation (Albania, Philippines, Kosovo, Palestine, Serbia, South Africa, Zimbabwe). The total number of staff employed at the Palme Center during the year was 43 (44). All employees at the headquarters are covered by collective labour agreements. Local employees are covered by conditions as close as possible to col- lective agreements. The statistics on local employ- ees only include people with employment contracts; a further 7 (5) people in our project countries are contracted via consultancy agreements. SUSTAINABILITY DISCLOSURES The Palme Center’s ability to run long-term and sus- tainable operations largely depends on the overall funding situation. The organisation is analysing Multi-year overview (SEK) thousand 2025 2024 2023 2022 2021 Revenue 178 940 185 254 164 697 196 540 180 164 Operating results 1 053 -5 122 -6 416 1370 8 906 Profit after financial items 3 562 -4 458 -5 265 1310 10 389 Balance sheet total 70 473 87 626 76 173 90 604 108 586
34 several scenarios to manage reduced grants and ensure continued stability. The organisation sees a trend break where broad civil society programmes are no longer in demand to the same extent. Instead, donors seek more niche programmes with thematically narrower programme goals, for example on just transition, conflict issues linked to trade and/or migration, or defence of/ peaceful transitions to democracy. These program- mes are often characterised by shorter programme periods and smaller funding volumes. Future developments and significant risks and uncertainties The global trend of deprioritising aid and interna- tional development cooperation continues. This constitutes the single greatest risk to the Palme Center’s operations. In addition, increased political polarisation, reduced space for civil society, and wars and conflicts contribute to a strained situa- tion in several of the Palme Center’s countries of operation. This affects partners, staff and member organisations. At the same time, the Palme Center sees continued strong engagement in international issues among our member organisations. The funding situation for international deve- lopment cooperation has generally deteriorated. Several institutional and bilateral donors, inclu- ding the EU, the USA, the UK, Germany, Finland, the Netherlands and Sweden, are implementing large-scale cuts and reprioritisations of their aid budgets. Against this background, the Palme Center intensified its work in 2025 to broaden and develop alternative funding sources in order to secure the long-term sustainability of its operations. Global uncertainty also affects the financial infra- structure. Tightened regulations and reduced risk appetite among banks make it increasingly difficult to carry out transactions to certain countries of operation, which in turn leads to more resource- intensive administration. At the same time, demands for internal governance and control are increasing, meaning that a larger share of the organisation’s internal resources must be allocated to meet these requirements. Financial instruments and investment policy The objectives of the Palme Center’s asset management are to ensure continuous growth of the organisation’s capital. The Palme Center is therefore working towards two targets: an annual direct return of a nominal 3% of the market value of the assets under management, and an annual total return (direct return plus value increase) of a nominal 5% of the market value of the assets under management. The assets of the Palme Center and the Solidarity Fund may be invested in fixed income securities, equity funds and alternative investments with limited risk. Investments shall be made in a sustai- nable manner consistent with the values expressed in the Statutes of the Palme Center. Investments shall be made in accordance with the Palme Cen- ter’s environmental and climate policy and the spirit of the section on sustainability in Bantorget Finans AB’s and The Swedish Trade Union Confederation’s (LO) investment policy. In 2025 work with Bantorget Finans to rebalance the Palme Center’s portfolio has continued. The portfolio has moved from investments in a variety of financial instruments with relatively high mana- gement costs to more traditional equity funds with lower costs. The Palme Center assesses that this change will, in the long run, provide more secure and stable returns as well as reduced management costs. Environment and climate action The Palme Center strives for continuous environmen- tal improvements throughout its operations. Structu- red environmental management work is therefore carried out to reduce the organisation’s negative impact on the climate and the environment, as well as to increase the organisation’s positive impact by developing the organisation to change. Since 2021 the Palme Center has been environ- mentally certified according to the Svensk Miljöbas standard and is working under an adopted environ- mental and climate action plan for 2020–2025. The goals include, among other things, integrating cli- mate and environmental perspectives into program- mes and projects, strengthening knowledge and competence on sustainability issues and reducing environmental impact, particularly from travel but also from transport, suppliers and procurement. All staff in Stockholm have completed basic environmental training. The Palme Center has also held workshops and network meetings on a just climate transition with project participants from partner organisations and member organisations The Palme Center’s environmental report is availa- ble on request. OTHER INFORMATION More information about the Palme Center’s activi- ties can be found on the Palme Center’s website: www.palmecenter.se
35 Annual Report and Accounts Statement of income and expense Statement of income and expense Note 2025-01-31 2024-01-31 TSEK –2025-12-31 –2024-12-31 The association’s income Grants received 2 158 916 171 261 Funds raised/gifts/donations/ contributions to the Solidarity Fund 15 339 9 019 Membership fees 4 486 4 377 Other operating income 199 597 Total income of the association 178 940 185 254 Association expenses Foreign aid program costs 3, 4 -170 008 -181 255 Fundraising costs -1 990 -3 674 Administration costs -5 890 -5 447 Total association expenses -177 887 -190 376 Operating result 1 053 -5 122 Financial items Other interest income and similar income 5 2 515 670 Interest expenses and similar income -5 -6 Total financial items 2 509 664 Result after financial items 6,7 3 562 -4 458 Result for the year 3 562 -4 458
36 Balance sheet Balance sheet Note 2025-12-31 2024-12-31 TSEK ASSETS Fixed assets Intangible fixed assets Intangible fixed assets 8 0 90 Total intangible fixed assets 0 90 Tangible fixed assets Machinery and equipment 9 589 382 Total tangible fixed assets 589 382 Total fixed assets 589 472 Current assets Current receivables Trade receivables 2 296 736 Tax receivables 570 570 Other current receivables 291 1 948 Prepaid expenses and accrued income 976 845 Total current receivables 4 134 4 100 Short-term investments Short-term investments 10 45 090 47 532 Total short-term investments 45 090 47 532 Cash and bank Cash and bank 20 661 35 522 Total cash and bank 20 661 35 522 Total current assets 69 885 87 154 TOTAL ASSETS 70 473 87 626
37 Balance sheet Balance sheet Note 2025-12-31 2024-12-31 TSEK EQUITY AND LIABILITIES Equity capital 11 Unrestricted equity Equity capital 32 505 28 943 Total non-restricted equity 32 505 28 943 Total equity 32 505 28 943 Current liabilities Trade payables 4 256 5 043 Debt to donors 12 25 347 46 860 Other current liabilities 1 952 1 670 Accrued expenses and deferred income 13 6 412 5 110 Total current liabilities 37 968 58 683 TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 70 473 87 626
38 Cash flow statement Note 2025-12-31 2024-12-31 TSEK Current operations Operational results 1 290 -4 897 Depreciation 226 281 Interest received and results of foreign exchange management 146 156 Dividends received 0 529 Realized result on sale of securities 2 369 0 Interest paid and foreign exchange results -242 -246 Cash flow from operating activities before changes in working capital 3 789 -4 177 Increase/decrease in other current receivables -34 6 896 Increase/decrease in other short-term investments 2 442 -26 939 Increase/decrease in trade payables -787 -1 331 Increase/decrease in other current liabilities -19 929 17 242 Cash flow from operating activities -14 519 -8 309 Investment activities Investments in intangible assets 0 0 Investments in tangible fixed assets -342 -241 Investments in financial fixed assets 0 0 Disposal of financial assets 0 3 250 Cash flow from investing activities -342 3 009 Cash flow for the year -14 861 -5 300 Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 35 522 40 822 Cash and cash equivalents at year-end 20 661 35 522
39 Notes TSEK Note 1 Accounting and valuation principles Olof Palme International Center’s annual report is prepared in accordance with the Swedish Annual Accounts Act and the Swedish Accounting Standards Board’s general advice BFNAR 2012:1 Annual Report and Consolidated Accounts (K3). The accounting principles are unchanged in comparison to the previous year. INCOME STATEMENT Operating income Only the inflow of economic benefits that the organisation has received or will receive for its own account is recognised as income. Revenue is measured, unless specifically stated below, at the fair value of what has been or will be received. The following describes, for each revenue item, when revenue is recognised. Membership fees Membership fees comprise payments for membership of the association. Membership fees are recognised upon receipt of payment from the member and recognised as revenue over the relevant period. Gifts and grants A transaction in which the organisation receives an asset or service that has value without giving back the equivalent value in exchange is a gift or grant received. If the asset or service is recei- ved because the organisation has met or will meet certain conditions and if the organization has an obligation to repay the counterparty if the conditions are not met, it is a grant received. If it is not a grant, it is a gift. Gifts Funds raised include gifts received mainly from individuals and organisations. Funds raised also include bequests and donations, the value of donated assets and income from funds raised with gift certificates. Gifts are generally recognised as revenue when received. Gifts are generally measured at fair value. Where the charity has provided consideration for the gift, the value of the gift is reduced by the consideration. Grants Grants are recognised as revenue when the conditions for obtaining the grant are met. Grants received are recognised as a liability until the conditions for obtaining the grant are met. Grants received to cover certain costs (e.g. for administration) are recognised in the same financial year as the cost they are intended to cover. Grants related to a fixed asset reduce its cost. Grants received are measured at the fair value of the asset received or receivable by the Organisation. Operating costs Operating costs are those costs directly related to the fulfillment of the organisation’s purpose and statutes. This item includes costs for communication and program activities as well as costs for training, skills development, quality assurance, exchange of experience, etc. A separate breakdown of the operating costs has been made regarding grants paid to aid projects, grants paid to the Solidarity Fund and fundraising costs for the Solidarity Fund.
40 Administration costs Administration costs are those costs that are necessary to administer the organisation itself. Some general administration is required to ensure good internal control and the good quality of the organisation’s reporting, personnel management, etc. This includes costs for administrative staff, rent, board meetings and similar costs. In cases where staff members work both on opera- tional tasks and on area administrative tasks, the costs for these persons have been allocated between operational and administrative costs in relation to the estimated time spent in each area. Costs for development cooperation and communication programmes Refers to disbursed grants for development cooperation projects where applied grants from Sida have been forwarded to member organisations after application to the Olof Palme International Center. In addition, they include direct costs incurred in development cooperation projects run by the Olof Palme International Center. Leasing All the Association’s leases are accounted for as operating leases, i.e. the lease payment (inclu- ding the first rent increase) is recognised on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Employee benefits Ongoing employee benefits in the form of wages, salaries, social security contributions and similar are expensed as the employees are in receipt of these services. As all pension obligations are classified as defined contribution, an expense is recognized in the year in which the pension is earned. Income tax The association is exempt from income tax on its non-profit activities as it qualifies as a public benefit under tax legislation. BALANCE SHEET Assets, liabilities and provisions are valued at cost unless otherwise stated below. Tangible and intangible fixed assets Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost less depreciation. Cost includes expenditure directly attributable to the acquisition of the asset. Grants relating to the acquisition of property, plant and equipment reduce the cost of the asset. An item of property, plant and equipment that has significant components where the difference in consumption is expected to be material is accounted for and depreciated as separate units based on the useful life of each component. Property, plant and equipment is depreciated on a systematic basis over the estimated useful life of the asset. In determining the depreciable amount of the assets, the residual value of the asset is taken into account where appropriate. The straight-line method of depreciation is used. The following depreciation periods are applied: Computer equipment 3 years Customised software 5 years Other equipment 5 years
41 Financial assets Financial instruments are accounted for in accordance with the rules in K3 Chapter 11, which means that valuation is based on cost. At the time of acquisition, financial assets are valued at cost plus direct transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, short-term investments are measured at the lower of cost and net realisable value at the balance sheet date. Trade receivables are valued individually at the amount expected to be received. All assets held for risk diversification purposes are considered to be part of a portfolio of securities and are therefore treated as one item for the purposes of valuation at the lower of cost or market and impairment testing. Receivables and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are valued at the closing rate. Liability for decided but unpaid grants In cases where the association has decided on the payment of a grant/allowance/subsidy and notified the recipient but has not made the payment, this amount is reported as a liability. Liability for received but unused grants When the association has received a grant but has not yet fulfilled the conditions, a liability is recognised. Provisions A provision is recognised when the association has obligations that arise during the financial year or previous financial years and that are certain or probable at the balance sheet date but uncertain as to amount or as to the timing of their settlement. Provisions are valued at the best estimate of the amount that will be required to be paid. Note 2 Grants from Sida and the EU 2025-01-31 2024-01-31 -2025-12-31 -2024-12-31 The Association’s income is distributed as follows*: Grants from Sida 145 987 161 545 Grants from EU 3 055 1 975 Other contributions received for operations 4 538 4 738 Contributions carried over from previous years 20 775 21 352 Contributions carried over to the following year -15 439 -18 349 Total 158 916 171 261 Of which administration grants 12 653 13 033 Of which project management 19 379 20 266 Note 3 Operating leases – lessees
42 2025-01-31 2024-01-31 -2025-12-31 -2024-12-31 Future minimum lease payments to be made in respect of leases: Due within one year 3 576 3 868 Due later than one but within five 5 years 78 3 945 Lease payments expensed during the period 3 654 7 813 Total leasing charges expensed for the financial year 3 506 3 872 Operating leases essentially consist of rented premises, office services and photocopiers. The agreement for the lease of the premises for the office runs for three years, the final year being 2026. The lease agreement for photocopiers is for five years, with 2027 being the final year. The amount of future lease payments is recorded at nominal value. Note 4 Wages, salaries, other remuneration and social security costs 2025-01-31 2024-01-31 -2025-12-31 -2024-12-31 Number of employees OPC Headquarters Sweden 32 33 Local Office Albania 1 1 Local Office Serbia/Bosnia (one office in Belgrad) 2 2 Local Office Kosovo 2 1 Local Office Palestine 2 2 Local Office South Africa 4 4 Local Office Democratic Republic of Congo 0 1 Average number of employees 43 44 Of the 32 staff members at the headquarters, 17 were women and 15 men. Of the 11 local staff, 6 were women and 5 men. The average number of employees for 2025 does not include employees who received remuneration of less than half a price base amount. Persons engaged on a consultancy basis are not included in the number of staff. 2025-01-31 2024-01-31 -2025-12-31 -2024-12-31 Salaries and other remuneration: Board of Directors and Secretary General* 1 031 942 Other employees 19 047 18 432 Total wages and salaries 20 079 19 374 * No fees were paid to the Board of Directors in 2024 (0). Social security costs 6 374 6 149 Pension costs Secretary General 517 126 Other employees 1 448 1 651 Total 1 965 1 777 Special payroll tax on pension premiums 446 431
43 Members of the Board of Directors and senior management Number of board members on the balance sheet date Women 7 7 Men 4 4 Total 11 11 Number of Secretaries-General and other senior managers Women 1 1 Men 4 4 Total 5 5 Agreement on severance pay According to the agreement, the Secretary-General has a notice period of 12 months in the event of dismissal by the employer, and 6 months in the event of their own resignation. For other members of the management team, the period of notice is 3–6 months depending on the length of service. In the event of own notice, 3 months. Note 5 Other interest income and similar income 2025-01-31 2024-01-31 -2025-12-31 -2024-12-31 Dividends 0 529 Capital gains on disposals 2 369 0 Interest income bank 104 151 Interest income on investments 0 0 Exchange rate differences 41 -9 2 515 670 Note 6 Specification of the result for the year 2025-01-31 2024-01-31 -2025-12-31 -2024-12-31 Profit for the year according to the profit and loss account Results of the Solidarity Fund 4 462 -5 853 Operations and Investment Fund -591 0 Amount remaining for the year -309 1 394 3 562 -4 458 Note 7 Solidarity Fund activities in figures 2025-01-31 2024-01-31 -2025-12-31 -2024-12-31 Revenue Solidarity Fund 7 720 5 366 Sponsorship income Solidarity Fund 3 135 2 519 Return on capital 4 308 1 133 Own contribution to Sida projects -8 861 -11 197 Direct interventions -50 -1 414 Funds collected carried over to the following year -534 -955 Other costs -1 256 -1 305 Allocation to the operational and investment fund 0 0 Result of the Solidarity Fund 4 462 -5 853
44 Other information regarding the Solidarity Fund: In addition to the direct return on capital shown in the accounts, there is also an underlying increase in market value. See difference between book value and market value in note 10. Note 8 Intangible fixed assets 2025-12-31 2024-12-31 Opening acquisition values 449 449 Purchases for the year 0 0 Disposals and scrapping 0 0 Closing accumulated acquisition values 449 449 Opening depreciation -359 -269 Disposals and scrapping 0 0 Depreciation for the year -90 -90 Closing accumulated depreciation -449 -359 Closing net book value 0 90 Note 9 Tangible fixed assets 2025-12-31 2024-12-31 Opening acquisition values 2 812 2 570 Purchases for the year 342 241 Disposals and scrapping 0 0 Closing accumulated acquisition values 3 155 2 812 Opening depreciation -2 430 -2 239 Disposals and scrapping 0 0 Depreciation for the year -136 -191 Closing accumulated depreciation -2 566 -2 430 Closing residual value according to plan 589 382 Note 10 Other short-term investments 2025-12-31 2024-12-31 Book value 45 095 47 532 Market value 48 215 52 991 Difference book value-market value 3 120 5 459 Swedbank equity funds 40 045 12 617 Special deposits 5 050 34 915 Corporate bond loans 0 0 Shares 0 0 Closing book value 45 095 47 532
45 Note 11 Change in equity Solidarity Operational and Balanced Total fund investment fund capital OPC equity Opening balance 12 636 8 057 8 250 28 943 Result for the year Solidarity Fund 4 462 4 462 Profit for the year from operations and investment fund -1 796 1 796 -591 -591 Remaining amount for the year OPC -309 -309 Closing balance 15 302 9 853 7 350 32 505 Note 12 Debt to Sida and other donors 2025-12-31 2024-12-31 Refund of appropriations for previous years 1 431 66 Donor contributions carried over to the following year 15 439 20 155 Interest payable 584 541 17 454 20 762 Note 13 Accrued expenses and deferred income 2025-12-31 2024-12-31 Vacation salaries 2 939 3 151 Accrued social security contributions 882 951 Prepaid appropriations 7 893 26 098 Other items 1 667 971 13 382 31 171
46 The contents of the Annual Report were approved on April 15 2026 Stockholm, on the date indicated by our electronic signature. Margot Wallström, SAP Oscar Ernerot Chair of the Board Secretary General Louise Olsson, LO Maria Nyberg, LO Karin Lindehoff, Handelsanställdas förbund Martin Gunnarsson, IF Metall Fredrik Pettersson, ABF Gabriella Lavecchia, Seko Christopher Lindvall, SSU Morgan Johansson, SAP Alma Hedmark, S-Studenter Sofia Eriksson, Kommunal Our auditor’s report was submitted on the date indicated by our electronic signature. Micaela Karlström Jan Björklund, SAP Authorised Public Accountant MOORE Allegretto i Stockholm AB
47 Auditor’s Report REPORT ON THE ANNUAL ACCOUNTS Opinions We have audited the annual accounts of Olof Palme International Center for the financial year 2025. In our opinion, the annual accounts have been prepared in accordance with the Swedish Annual Accounts Act and present fairly, in all material res- pects, the financial position of the Center as of 31 December 2025 and its financial performance for the year in accordance with the Swedish Annual Accounts Act. The management report is consistent with the other parts of the annual accounts. Basis for Opinions We conducted our audit in accordance with Interna- tional Standards on Auditing (ISA) and generally accepted auditing standards in Sweden. Our responsi- bilities under those standards are further described in the sections Responsibilities of the Authorized Public Accountant and Responsibilities of the Lay Auditor. We are independent of the Center in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards in Sweden. I, as the Authorized Public Accountant, have fulfilled my professional ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtai- ned is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinions. Other Information than the Annual Accounts The Board of Directors is responsible for the other information. The other information consists of the annual report (but does not include the annual accounts and our auditor’s report thereon). Our opinion on the annual accounts does not cover this information and we do not express any form of assurance conclusion regarding this other information. In connection with our audit of the annual accounts, our responsibility is to read the information identified above and consider whether the information is materially inconsistent with the annual accounts. In doing so, we also take into account the knowledge we have otherwise obtained during the audit and assess whether the information otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If, based on the work performed regarding this information, we conclude that there is a material misstatement in the other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard. Responsibilities of the Board of Directors The Board of Directors is responsible for the prepara- tion of the annual accounts and for ensuring that they give a true and fair view in accordance with the Swedish Annual Accounts Act. The Board is also responsible for such internal control as it determines is necessary to enable the preparation of annual accounts that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the annual accounts, the Board of Directors is responsible for assessing the Center’s ability to continue as a going concern. They disclose, as applicable, matters that may affect the ability to continue as a going concern and use the going concern basis of accounting. However, the going concern basis is not applied if the Board intends to liquidate the Center, cease operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so. Responsibilities of the Authorized Public Accountant My objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the annual accounts as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes my opinions. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISA and generally accepted auditing standards in Sweden will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these annual accounts. As part of an audit in accordance with ISA, I exercise professional judgment and maintain professi- onal skepticism throughout the audit. I also: » identify and assess the risks of material missta- tement of the annual accounts, whether due to fraud or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for my opinions. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepre- sentations, or override of internal control. » obtain an understanding of the part of the Center’s internal control relevant to my audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expres- sing an opinion on the effectiveness of internal control. » evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estima- tes and related disclosures made by the Board of Directors. »
48 » conclude on the appropriateness of the Board’s use of the going concern basis of accounting and, based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Center’s ability to continue as a going concern. If I conclude that a material uncertainty exists, I am required to draw attention in my auditor’s report to the related disclosures in the annual accounts or, if such disclosures are inadequate, to modify my opinion. My conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of the auditor’s report. However, future events or conditions may cause the Center to cease to continue as a going concern. » evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the annual accounts, including the disclosures, and whether the annual accounts represent the underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair presentation. I must inform the Board of Directors of, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and significant audit findings, including any signifi- cant deficiencies in internal control that I identify during my audit. Responsibilities of the Lay Auditor My responsibility is to conduct an audit in accordance with the Auditing Act and thus in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards in Sweden. My objective is to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the annual accounts have been prepared in accordance with the Swedish Annual Accounts Act and whether they give a true and fair view of the Center’s results and financial position. REPORT ON OTHER LEGAL AND REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS Opinions In addition to our audit of the annual accounts, we have also audited the administration of the Board of Directors of Olof Palme International Center for the financial year 2025. We recommend that the Representative Assembly grant discharge from liability to the members of the Board of Directors for the financial year. Basis for Opinion We conducted the audit in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards in Sweden. Our responsi- bilities under these standards are further described in the sections Responsibilities of the Authorized Public Accountant and Responsibilities of the Lay Auditor. We are independent of the Center in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards in Sweden. I, as the Authorized Public Accountant, have otherwise fulfilled my professional ethical responsibi- lities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtai- ned is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. Responsibilities of the Board of Directors The Board of Directors is responsible for the administration. Auditor’s Responsibility Our objective regarding the audit of the administra- tion, and thus our opinion on discharge from liability, is to obtain audit evidence to assess with reasonable assurance whether any member of the Board has undertaken any action or been guilty of any omission which may give rise to liability to the Center. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with generally accepted auditing stan- dards in Sweden will always detect actions or omis- sions that may give rise to liability. As part of an audit in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards in Sweden, the Authori- zed Public Accountant exercises professional judg- ment and maintains professional skepticism throughout the audit. The audit of the administration is primarily based on the audit of the accounts. Additional audit procedures performed are based on the Authorized Public Accountant’s professional judgment and the judgments of the other appointed auditors, with focus on risk and materiality. This means that we focus the audit on actions, areas and circumstances that are material to the operations and where deviations or violations would have particular significance for the Center’s situation. We review and test decisions taken, supporting documen- tation, actions carried out and other circumstances relevant to our opinion on discharge from liability. As of the date indicated by our electronic signatures ________________________________ Jan Björklund Lay Auditor ________________________________ Micaela Karlström Authorized Public Accountant MOORE Allegretto i Stockholm AB
49 Linnéa Wennberg, Swedish Workers’ Educational Association, ABF (replaced by Fredrik Pettersson, ABF, on October 22) Margot Wallström, Chair Louise Olsson, Swedish Trade Union Confederation, LO, Vice Chair Maria Nyberg, Swedish Trade Union Confederation, LO Christopher Lindvall, Swedish Social Democratic Youth League, SSU Gabriella Lavecchia, Swedish Union for Service and Communications Employees, Seko Morgan Johansson, Swedish Social Democrats Martin Gunnarsson, Swedish Metal and Industrial Workers Union, IF Metall Alma Hedmark, Social Democratic Students of Sweden, S-Studenter Karin Lindehoff, Swedish Commercial Employees’ Union, Handels ALTERNATE MEMBERS OF THE BOARD Åsa Törnlund, Swedish Trade Union Confederation, LO Cyrene Waern, Swedish Trade Union Confederation, LO Sofia Eriksson, Swedish Municipal Workers’ Union Paula Carvalho, Swedish Social Democrats Olle Thorell, Swedish Social Democrats Tomas Aronson Ylipää, Young Eagles Jimmy Ovesson, Swedish Transport Workers’ Union Monica Widman-Lundmark, Labour Movement Folk High Schools Sara Kukka-Salam, Swedish Social Democrats for Faith and Solidarity Dan Nicander, Swedish Union of Tenants Fredrik Pettersson, Swedish Workers’ Educational Association, ABF(replaced by Aida Zekic, ABF, 22/10) Nina Ünesi, Social Demo- cratic Women in Sweden, S-kvinnor (until November 20) BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2025 STATUTORY AUDITORS Jan Björklund, Swedish Social Democrats Micaela Karlström, certified public accountant DEPUTY AUDITORS Lars Gäfvert, Swedish Trade Union Confederation, LO Anna Wretholm, certified public accountant NOMINATION COMMITTEE Roger Hällhag, Swedish Social Democrats Elisabeth Brandt Ygeman, Swedish Trade Union Confederation, LO Marianne Ericsson, Swedish Workers’ Educational Association, ABF
50 Photo: Olof Palmes Minnesfond
51 “IN THE STRUGGLE FOR INTERNATIONAL SOLIDARITY, WE MUST ENGAGE WITH ALL OUR STRENGTH BECAUSE WE ARE DEEPLY OUTRAGED BY THE INJUSTICES OF THE WORLD, BECAUSE OUR FUTURE IS CLOSELY BOUND UP WITH THE FUTURE OF OTHER PEOPLES.” – OLOF PALME
52 PARTNER WITH US The Palme Center works in close partnership with civil society organisations, trade unions, and political parties and movements to strengthen democracy, human rights, social justice, sustaina- bility, and peace worldwide. Our work is funded through membership fees from our Swedish member organisations, fundraising efforts, and primarily through grants from institutional donors. With extensive experience in managing large-scale funding agree- ments, we implement donor-funded programmes and projects across multiple regions. In 2025, we worked with 168 local partners in Europe, Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Middle East, implementing activities with a total value exceeding SEK 170 million. A TRUSTED PARTNER We combine long-term partnerships with strong financial management and accountability. Our approach strengthens local ownership and contributes to sustainable results in complex and often challenging environments. We are actively working to strengthen our operations, broaden our networks and diversify our funding base in order to strengthen and develop our international solidarity work. To explore partnership opportunities, please contact us via: www.palmecenter.se WWW.PALMECENTER.SE