Almedalen 2026: Role of veterans in shaping policy: panel discussion with FBA and Swedish Defence University in Almedalen

How can support systems for veterans be built in a way that reflects their real experiences and needs?

This was one of the key questions at the panel "Ukrainian veterans and democratic resilience: lessons for reintegration", organised by the Försvarshögskolan - Swedish Defence University and the FBA (Folke Bernadotte Academy), presenting new research on Ukrainian veterans' attitudes toward democracy, equality, social inclusion and trust.

The findings challenge the idea that veterans can be seen as one single group. Instead, factors such as war injuries, demobilization and gender play a bigger role in shaping attitudes - showing that veterans have different experiences and needs that must be reflected in support systems.

The panel brought together:
🔹 Erik Melander, Swedish Defence University
🔹 Emma Mihlzen, Folke Bernadotte Academy
🔹 Oleksandr Tereshchenko, representative of HUG’s Ukrainian delegation, People’s Hero of Ukraine and former Deputy Minister of Veterans Affairs of Ukraine
🔹 Patrik Oksanen, moderator, Swedish Defence University

With his background as a servicemember, policymaker and civil society leader, Oleksandr connected research and policy discussions with the realities of veteran transition.

At HUG, we believe that effective solutions start with understanding the people they are designed for. We are glad to contribute to the discussion by connecting Ukrainian experience with Swedish institutions and helping ensure that veterans’ voices are part of shaping the policies that affect them.

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