That is a very admirable trait and I have always had a great respect for Finnish people for being a proud people that fought against the Soviets against all odds, what Sweden did during WW2 was on the other hand utterly shameful. That we didn't come to our neighbors help, no matter the chance of success, was pitiful. On a random note, I did a DNA test and found out that I'm 7% Finnish, (my mother is Swedish).
In fairness, there were some volunteer troops, but yeah, Sweden's efforts didn't amount to much. I think it would've helped the Swedish national psyche if their government had taken some kind of a stance, at some point, instead of just playing it safe.
Several studies in Sweden shows that white flight is real and many of the respondents claim to wany that their children go to ethnically diverse schools but in reality, those who have the economic means begin to move away from their neighborhood when the percentage of immigrants reaches 4%.
It's legit, and often it has to do with the fact that a lot of ethnic gangs/hustlers travel alongside the immigrants due to lax immigration policies. The old problems will always travel alongside the immigrating people, unless something filters them out.
I think in Sweden, too few will stay behind and take on their adversaries. I partially blame the 200 years of peace Sweden has experienced for having eradicated the fight reflex.
Since the last war against Russians, the Swedes have had a history of running away from the conflict. Literally, they spent the entire war running backwards even though they could've matched the Russian troops, in some battles atleast.
The collapse of the Swedish psyche began with Charles XII, the warrior-king who failed to conquer Russia. His aspirations were too great, and his fall was great, too. Gustav III was the last man who attempted to elevate the Swedes to previous heights. After his assassination, Sweden basically accepted its role as a "non-player" in the world's affairs. A mere observant, from a distance great enough to avoid the consequences of other people's actions.
Losing Finland basically put an end to Sweden as any kind of a military might, as a lot of Sweden's front-line troops were drawn from Finnish ranks. As you say, they never fought a single battle after.
I don't know when the "running away" will stop, but it doesn't seem to be stopping any time soon. But at some point, you'll have to stand your ground and fight for what you've got. And I do not meant a militaristic, physical effort, but a mental, psychological battle. Pacifism may be successful and even desirable as a military strategy, but it is not successful as an overall strategy. You cannot act submissive in regards to your own culture, traditions, ideals, laws and order.
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