LiU Summer Academy: Swedish International Management in a (De-)Globalized World

Aim

After completing the course, the student should be able to:

• analyze the internationalization processes of Swedish companies and how business models can be adapted to different cultural and institutional contexts.
• identify and discuss global challenges that multinational companies may encounter, including the balance between global standardization and local adaptation.
• apply theoretical frameworks to understand how Swedish companies integrate sustainability and innovation into their global business strategies.
• evaluate the role of Swedish companies in shaping markets by influencing norms, standards, and demand.

Content

This course offers an in-depth introduction to international business, with a unique focus on the global activities of Swedish companies. By using Swedish firms as examples, the course explores key themes within the field of international management. Topics covered include internationalization processes, the influence of cultural and institutional factors on global operations, and how Swedish companies adapt to and shape competitive environments internationally.

In an era characterized by discussions of “de-globalization” and regionalization, Swedish firms stand out as role models in combining resilience and adaptability within international business. The course further examines how Swedish companies address global challenges by adapting to regional markets, driving sustainability initiatives, and promoting innovation.

Students will gain a deeper understanding of how Swedish firms integrate innovation, sustainability, and Nordic values into their global value chains. The course aims to combine practical examples (case studies) with fundamental theoretical frameworks (e.g., the resource-based view, dynamic capabilities, network theory, and the Uppsala model) to provide a broad understanding of international business in a changing world. In short, the course is designed for students who wish to develop deeper insights into international business with a specific connection to Sweden’s role in the global economy.