Publication

Sweden’s road safety system has long been internationally recognised, built on close collaboration between the state, industry, academia – and civil society. In recent years, however, the role of the non-profit sector has weakened. At the same time, new societal challenges and increasing demands for knowledge-based governance, citizen involvement, and democratic dialogue have emerged. In this changing context, a key question arises: What role can and should non-profit organisations play in the future of road safety work? This project specifically investigates the conditions for the National Society for Road Safety (NTF).

This study, supported by the Swedish Skyltfonden, aims to provide a knowledge base for a potential renewal of NTF. Through document analysis, environmental scanning, and around twenty interviews with key stakeholders from government agencies, academia, civil society, and industry – in Swedenand internationally – we have analysed NTF’s historical and current role, its strengths and challenges, and its future potential. We have also examined alternative models for governance and funding. 

The purpose of the report is to identify strategic options and offer recommendations on how NTF can take a clearer and more relevant role as a voice for road users and as an actor in the transition towards a sustainable transport system. The study shows that there is still a need for an independent, non-profit, and unifying organisation in the field of road safety. However, to meet future demands, renewed organisation, stronger financing, and a clearer strategic direction are necessary.

Our recommendations follow the structure of the "Civil Society Contract Wheel" – a five-step model developed within this project. We recommend that NTF works through each step methodically and in order. This is a long-term development process, where capacity is gradually built, with the goal of positioning NTF as a modern, relevant, and strategic civil society actor within road safety. This work needs to start as soon as possible – and be pursued with focus over time.

The study clearly shows that there is a continued need for an independent, non-profit, and trustworthy actor to represent road users, promote public education, and support a democratic and evidence-based approach to road safety. To take on this role, NTF needs to take the following actions, based on the five steps of the Contract Wheel:

1. Role and identity 

   NTF needs to clarify its purpose in today’s society: What value can the organisation create – and for whom? We recommend that NTF defines a clear and updated mission with focus on systemic influence, citizen perspectives, and evidence-based public education. This forms the foundation for building a new “social contract” between civil society and the state – where roles, responsibilities, and mutual expectations are clearly defined.

2. Shared goals with the public sector 

   To contribute to national goals in road safety, climate, and public health, NTF should develop relevant indicators and working methods to make its contributions measurable and visible. By modernising its mission and strengthening its links to research and analysis, NTF can position itself as a strategic partner to the public sector. Its role as a knowledge-based and educational actor should be particularly emphasised. A renewed social contract between the state and the organisation should rest on shared responsibilities – based on a clear agreement on goals, mission, and roles.

3. Effective operations – trust, communication and influence

   We recommend that NTF undertakes a structural renewal, with a focus on competence, analytical capacity, and communication. This may involve a new geographical and organisational structure – better adapted to today’s society – with a central office leading national strategy and local branches creating practical value. NTF should build on its unique strengths: local presence, credibility, and neutrality.

4. Long-term and independent financing To build strategic capacity, stable and trust-based financing is needed.

   We recommend long-term public funding (e.g., through framework agreements), complemented by diversified income sources such as business partnerships, sales, and memberships. A new funding model should strengthen NTF’s independence, transparency, and long-term sustainability – in line with its values and mission.

5. Success factors – strong alliances and strategic collaboration 

   NTF’s ability to build and maintain long-term alliances is vital for its future legitimacy and impact. We recommend active work to develop strategic partnerships across sectors, levels, and disciplines – nationally and internationally. These alliances should reflect the role NTF wants to play in the road safety ecosystem. An organisation is defined not only by what it does – but also by the contexts it operates in and the actors it collaborates with.

Conclusion 

We identify five key conditions for NTF to take a leading role in future road safety efforts:

1. A renewed mission with system-level influence and a strong educational role.
2. Long-term and independent funding.
3. A new social contract between civil society and the state.
4. A modern organisation with relevant competence and analytical capacity.
5. Increased collaboration and presence in strategic arenas – nationally and internationally.

With the right conditions, NTF can evolve into a powerful, modern civil society actor in one of the world’s leading road safety societies – while also contributing to strengthening democracy and evidence-based governance in Sweden’s road safety work.