The secret of IFN’s success is that the Institute contributes to societal debate with well-founded analyses, writes Michael Treschow, Chairman of the Board. He explains that it is the diversity present at IFN which creates the conditions for high-quality research - not least the diversity of perspectives, standpoints and ideas.
IFN celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2014. That’s a noteworthy age for a research institute.
Its first year was overshadowed by the Second World War. Back then, the Institute looked at supply in a time of blockades, and about business prior to peace. Society and business have transformed since then. And so has the research published by the Institute. It has pursued topics that have homed in on business sectors, such as the future of the television and automotive industries, to today’s focus on broader societal and business issues, among other things in the areas of trust, entrepreneurship and education.
IFN is a vital 75 year-old. The relevance of the topics it chooses to research indicates how the institute has moved with the times. This is a key factor underpinning an IFN that is stronger than ever as an independent research institute.
Diversity is an additional strength of the institute. And it’s not just the fact that IFN researchers come from a wide range of countries; even the differential between the oldest and youngest researcher earns respect: 56 years sets them apart! Added to this impressive group of researchers at IFN are 25 affiliated researchers to be found at universities across the country and elsewhere in the world. A guest research program also attracts well-renowned researchers from other countries for short or longer programs at IFN in Sweden - a co-operation that supplies both parties with new impulses.
IFN is a breeding ground for a diversity of perspectives, standpoints and ideas. Nothing is carved in stone. If there is any testament to how influential the research is that IFN conducts, it is the fact that it is quoted by commentators and opinion-leaders from differing viewpoints across the political spectrum - and on topics as wide as they are relevant to society, from taxes and education to integration or gender quotas, and a lot more. Trust in the research conducted by IFN is quite simply high among opinion leaders and those in power.
The Institute has over the years contributed to societal debate with well-founded and high quality analyses and policy recommendations. This is the secret behind its success.
MICHAEL TRESCHOW
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD