Nordic generosity and development aid: The cases of Denmark, Norway and Sweden

Abstract

Scandinavian countries are influential actors in global development cooperation. While many high-income economies have not lived up to the international aid norm for decades, these small welfare states have consistently adopted it since the 1970s. Scandinavians have not only been praised for their generosity but also for their altruistic motives, especially for their commitment to the reduction of poverty in the least developed countries. However, certain other motives are also believed to have played an increasing role in the allocation of their foreign assistance. In addition, both the composition and geographical allocation of Nordic aid have changed over time because of various domestic and international factors. This article analyzes the official development assistance (ODA) activities of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden from a historical perspective. Findings of the study also shed light on the similarities and differences between the Nordics and the DAC group.