Only about 15% of Sweden territory lies beyond the Arctic Circle. It has no Arctic coastal line, making the climate rather moderate. The tree line goes well above the Swedish northern border forming one of the greatest forest areas in all Europe.
A military power during the 17th century, Sweden has not participated in any war for almost two centuries. An armed neutrality is one of the features the Swedes are very proud of and have preserved through both world wars and the cold war period.
Sweden hosts a Sami population of 20 000, many of them living in some of the 51 Sami villages found in the country. The Sami were recognized as indigenous peoples by the Swedish government in 1977 and the Sami Parliament was established in 1993.
Despite being an active member of the Arctic Council, Sweden is not very Arctic state. Swedish explorer Nils Nordenskjold was the first to complete a voyage through the Northeast Passage, but since his days there has not been too much of interest in the Arctic regions.
Sweden published it's Arctic strategy in May 2011, last of the 8 Arctic states, and acts currently as a chair in the Arctic Council.
Source: CIA World Factbook
