By: Jennifer Jun, Director of Strategic Partnerships and Communication
RWI’s Board of Trustees gathered in Lund this week for its autumn meeting, at a time when the principles of human rights, rule of law, and democracy are under pressure around the world.
For the last four decades, RWI has played an important role in anchoring those principles globally. In 2025, as part of our continuing commitment, RWI is pleased to announce the new composition of our Board of Trustees, which includes two new members bringing critical expertise and values-based leadership to the Institute’s mission.
Welcoming New Board Members
Helena Dandenell is a seasoned lawyer with extensive experience as arbitrator in both national and international dispute resolution. She has represented Sweden in the ICC International Court of Arbitration and served on the board of the Arbitration Institute of the Stockholm Chamber of Commerce. Helena currently chairs several research-oriented foundations and brings deep insight into legal institutions and governance.
Torbjörn Pettersson is a former ambassador and senior development official whose three decades of experience span diplomacy, post-conflict transitions, and democratic governance. He has held key leadership roles at Sida and served as Sweden’s ambassador to Afghanistan and to Ethiopia, the African Union and the UN Economic Commission for Africa.
“We are proud to welcome Helena and Torbjörn to the board. Their experience, combined with the renewed commitment of our continuing members, will guide the Institute at a time when our work is more pressing than ever.”
-Peter Lundberg, RWI Executive Director
They join a distinguished group of returning board members and staff representative to the board:
- Elisabet Fura (Chair)
- Robert Hårdh
- Mark Klamberg
- Matthew Scott (Staff representative)
- Christer Thordson
A Strategic Role in a Challenging Time
The Board of Trustees plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the integrity and long-term vision of the Institute. In today’s shifting geopolitical landscape, this means ensuring that RWI’s research, programmes, partnerships, and outreach continue to support the principles that underpin peaceful and just societies.
“Today, in an era where the very foundations of human rights and international law are being questioned, our board has a critical responsibility—to help the Institute stay relevant, ambitious, and unwavering in its mission.”
-Elisabet Fura, Chair of the Board, RWI
The board’s strategic oversight is essential as RWI deepens its work across five thematic areas, from Ukraine to Türkiye, from Armenia to Zimbabwe.
Meet all members of the Board of Trustees →