New Year's Greeting from the Chairman

2024 has just come to an end, and as always, it provides an opportunity to reflect on the most significant events, changes, and experiences the year brought with it.

I believe it has been a year of fundamentally great challenges for those of us in the private business sector. A year where we’ve had to accept changes that could bring significant transformations to our society—for better or worse.

As business professionals, it can be difficult to understand political decisions that create noise and uncertainty when we look toward growth, development, and opportunities. I understand both the challenges and the intentions outlined by civil society, businesses, and politicians regarding the recently adopted changes within both the fishing industry and tourism. However, I would have wished for the political process to utilize more of the extensive knowledge that exists within the business sector, among others.

It will be exciting to follow the new foundation we are moving onto, and there is no doubt that we, as business professionals, must adjust our operations and examine how opportunities will unfold in the future.

We are used to adapting and doing what is necessary. This is also why it can be difficult to see oneself restricted in various contexts where it could have been avoided—or at least approached with a greater level of compromise.

In the coming years, the new foundation we are to operate on must be handled, and we must find our footing.

This strengthens my belief that we will succeed, especially because of the organization we have in the GBA. We are strong and have a powerful voice. We hold clear positions on several topics for the upcoming election. This is where we can demonstrate what we want to be a part of and what we cannot align ourselves with—by standing together, being well-informed, and fact-based before we vote.

Therefore, in the upcoming election period, the GBA will focus on some of the business policy issues that matter most to our members. We will address these issues under the overarching theme: "What kind of society do you want?"

I know what kind of society I want. I want an inclusive society—one that understands we must also have the courage to prioritize if we are to achieve our goals. I want a secure society for our families with children, our youth, and our elderly. A society where there is enough for everyone, and where public care is strong and firmly grounded. A society where, through every possible means and collaboration, we tackle homelessness, vulnerability, and growing social inequality.

I want us not to shy away from seeking help and cooperation from the outside world whenever necessary. I hope we can see that we need support to build the long-term efforts that will give us greater independence. I hope we dare to believe that this does not mean losing something but rather gaining so much more.

I wish for strong dialogue and solid cooperation regarding the business policy frameworks to be realized in the coming years, benefitting all of us across the board.

With hopes for a prosperous 2025—a strong business sector is synonymous with a strong society...

A very Happy New Year to you and your loved ones!

Krissie Winberg

President