Tag: sweden

Before the 18th century and the industrial revolution, trust was simple. A handshake, a promise, or even just a word was enough to seal agreements and build relationships. Communities prospered on mutual understanding, shared values, and unwritten social contracts. Nowadays, we rely on documentation and intermediaries to feel certainty in how we operate our society. What happened to us, and what led us to realize that the old ways weren’t working?

The short story is that the industrial revolutions created a more complex world, which required a new approach to trust.

When I think back to history, trust wasn’t always something we had to write down or verify through third parties. In smaller communities, accountability came naturally because everyone knew each other. If someone broke their word, the consequences were immediate and visible. However, as societies scaled and globalized, personal connections faded, and institutions—governments, banks, and corporations—stepped in to fill the space. The world turned digital, and technology companies stepped in to store our data and govern interactions, shaping public discourse.

Then we had the 2008 financial crash, and we suddenly realized how shady and self-serving some financial systems could be. Scandals like Cambridge Analytica exposed the extent to which big tech companies increasingly exploited our personal information for profit. We understood that governments and corporations (e.g., Meta) often wield control in ways that benefit themselves rather than the people they claim to serve. Our blind willingness to rely on centralized authorities also eroded over time. Slowly but surely, people began to lose faith—not just in institutions, but in the idea that anyone else had their best interests at heart.

Now, what did we do when we had created a world too big and complex for us, with declining trust levels? We turned to technology to solve our problems for us. As always.

We created what we call Web3 technologies, aiming to increase transparency in this complex society. I’m sure you’ve heard of blockchain technology, which creates unchallengeable records of every transaction or decision. These technologies restore clarity and confidence in systems that once felt impenetrable and difficult to improve. Great, but…

It’s sad that, in some way, we’re creating a society that doesn’t require trust between people to function well. When do we cross the line into a trustless society that erodes the very core fabric of human relations? Moreover, we can’t put blind trust in AI which is part of Web3?

An even bigger question is whether the failure of past eras was rooted in a lack of trust between people—or was it the result of structures designed to favor certain groups while excluding others? I think both. When trust breaks down, we turn to rules, regulations, and intermediaries to get cooperation. The problem is that those very mechanisms can sometimes maintain current inequality in the system if we're not aware of the weakening of human-centric values in our digital age.

Maybe I romanticize the past, imagining a world where trust flowed beautifully between neighbors and strangers alike. I have to consider that societal evolution brought challenges that couldn’t be solved by good old trust. It’s also clear that as our existence grew intercontinental and economies globalized, face-to-face relationships changed. All in all, our complex societal structures forced us to create abstract systems governed by laws, policies, and now code. However, I sincerely hope that trust between people will prevail—you and me.

The beauty of Web3 lies in its potential. It invites us to imagine a society where transparency, decentralization, and inclusivity guide us.

Yet I wonder: Will Web3 succeed? Only if we approach it thoughtfully, ensuring it doesn’t repeat the mistakes of previous eras. Transparency, decentralization, and equity are key ingredients for rebuilding trust. But without genuine human connections, these alone won’t be enough.

Without meaningful human connections, we risk creating a trustless technocratic society where code replaces accountability. That’s not progress; it’s regression.

Maybe I should ask: How can we ensure that Web3 doesn’t just replace broken systems but also restores trust between people? Let’s work together to create a future where technology enhances trust, rather than replacing it. After all, we’re still not humanoids.

As a Swede, I hear about our strong history of creating powerful solutions, like Spotify, Bluetooth, and the pacemaker, which have changed everyday life for people around the world. This same spirit of innovation can now be used to make things like money management, voting, and even how we share information online more fair, safe, and easy for everyone through new digital ideas. Yet, when it comes to Web3, I can’t help but feel we’re sitting on untapped potential. Here’s what Sweden could do.

For inspiration, I looked at what Sweden could learn from Singapore.

Sweden has distinct advantages that, if properly utilized, could position us as leaders in Web3. These strengths lie in our love for equality, transparency, and social welfare. Yes, these values align perfectly with the principles of decentralization and trust that underpin Web3 technologies.

Sweden could use blockchain to enhance transparency in public services or create decentralized systems that empower underserved communities. These aren’t far-fetched ideas; they’re practical applications of Web3 that could improve how we live and work. But first, we need to recognize these opportunities.

One of Sweden’s greatest strengths is its dedication to transparency. I would say this is a big selling point for Web3 for Scandinavian hearts since we know that transparency increases trust. Whether it’s open government data or accessible public records, we truly value clarity and accountability. Web3 offers a chance to take this even further.

I would also like to highlight the possibilities of a blockchain-based system for tracking medical records, making healthcare more efficient and equitable. Let me tell you, the healthcare sector needs it badly.

In Singapore, blockchain is being used to enhance supply chain transparency, ensuring consumers know exactly where their products come from. They’ve also piloted blockchain solutions for cross-border trade, reducing fraud and increasing efficiency. If Singapore can do it for trade, why can’t Sweden do it for public services?

Sweden’s robust social welfare system—with universal healthcare, social benefits, and social support—is one of our proudest achievements. However, it is also characterized by a complex and extensive bureaucratic framework. Now, picture enhancing it with Web3 solutions that make services faster, cheaper, and more inclusive.

For instance, blockchain could simplify the process of verifying eligibility for pensions, unemployment support, or housing assistance. This would reduce bureaucracy while ensuring no one falls through the cracks.

Singapore has implemented blockchain-based identity verification systems to improve access to government services. These systems allow citizens to securely share personal information only when necessary, protecting privacy while speeding up processes. I wonder if Sweden could adopt similar solutions to make social welfare more efficient?

"If Sweden uses Web3 technology to strengthen our social safety net even further, we’ll set an example for the rest of the world."

Sweden has a long-standing love for gender equality and inclusion. I suggest, develop targeted programs that encourage women and underrepresented groups to engage with Web3 technologies. Offer workshops, scholarships, and mentorship initiatives to create a more diverse and inclusive community. Well, I guess it’s early…

However, Singapore actively supports diversity in tech through partnerships with universities and industry leaders. Programs like TechSkills Accelerator (TeSA) provide training in blockchain and other emerging technologies, ensuring that everyone has access to new opportunities.

Swedish authorities could look further into providing secure digital identities, protecting citizens’ privacy online with Web3 technology. Take a sneak peek at Singapore’s government, which has invested heavily in blockchain infrastructure to foster trust in both public and private sectors.

Who cares? Well, in our digital world, trust is more important than ever.

When I think about Sweden’s potential in Web3, I see potential that we would create a future where technology works for everyone, not just the few. Blockchain technology can ensure fair elections, make healthcare more accessible, and empower small businesses to compete globally. These aren’t distant dreams—they’re already being pursued by other nations and are within reach if Sweden chooses to pursue them.

So, we can build on what we already do best: promoting equality, fostering trust, and solving real-world problems. By applying these values to Web3, we’ll create solutions that most Swedes think would improve society even more.

I wonder, will we seize this opportunity?