"Cool Neighbours" : How has Sweden’s attitude towards Russia changed since the end of the Cold War?

Abstract: This thesis aims to describe how the attitude of the Swedish Riksdag towards Russia has changed during the post-Cold War era. Describing the change in attitude is done by using Alexander Wentd's Social theory of international relations, and the constructivist idea of external shocks influencing state behaviour. More specifically, the thesis examines, (1) what external shocks/events that can be found during the post-Cold-War-era? and (2) In what way and/or direction have these events caused a shift in culture? This study uses a qualitative approach to conduct a single case study in order to explain the Sweden-Russia relationship. By looking at protocols from the Swedish Riksdag, the opinions of the politicians can be established, which ultimately is where the attitude of Russia is formed. The study shows that the relationship has, indeed, changed. Through events like the Chechnya, Georgian and Syrian war, the appointment of president Vladimir Putin, the 9/11 attacks and the Ukraine crisis, the Swedish attitude towards Russia has has experienced a change for the worse. The relationship has shifted from being based on friendship, to be based on rivalry.