We are pleased to release a new episode of our podcast, featuring one of this year’s castle speakers: Dr. Marie Jacobsson, former Ambassador and Principal Legal Adviser on International Law at the Swedish Ministry for Foreign Affairs, and one of Sweden’s most experienced experts in international peace and security.
Marie Jacobsson has an extensive background in both multilateral and bilateral negotiations. Her expertise spans UN Charter law, international humanitarian law, the law of the sea and maritime security, maritime delimitation, and regional security. She is an Associate Professor of International Law at Lund University and was appointed Honorary Doctor at the UN’s World Maritime University in Malmö in 2025, a distinction that further highlights her deep relevance to today’s maritime and security challenges.
In this conversation ahead of the Kastelholm Talks 2026, Marie reflects on her professional background, the issues she considers most pressing in the current international landscape, and the perspectives she brings to this year’s discussions. The episode also touches on the 2026 theme, “The Sea as an Arena for Cooperation and Conflict”, exploring how the world’s oceans have become an increasingly central stage for geopolitical dynamics.
Listen to the episode for an insightful introduction to one of this year’s castle speakers and to the themes that will shape the Kastelholm Talks 2026.