Two separate historical traditions have influenced Swedish literacy: the church and formal schooling. In answer to the challenge of the International Literacy Year 1990, Sweden has formed a national committee to address such issues as future literacy missions, support of international understanding, and stimulation of research. The National Board of Education has identified the necessary levels of literacy that would apply to all pupils after 9 years of compulsory schooling. Research on literacy in compulsory schools has shown a positive picture of literacy and the importance of basic skills for future life. Research related to lifelong education, of which literacy is an inherent dimension, has focused on defining the problem of adult illiteracy, young people in upper secondary schools who have serious deficiencies in literacy skills, and adult basic education for immigrants, "new" learners, and adults with learning disabilities. A comprehensive research strategy would include studies of the acquisition of literacy, assessment of adult literacy levels, analysis of adult reading and writing disabilities, and international comparative studies. A Swedish approach to the future literacy mission would have an international flavor, focus on family literacy, include workplace education, and expand the concept of literacy to embrace all forms of communication. (11 references) (YLB)