STOCKHOLM : Alva Myrdal, who spent her life fighting for change and won the 1982 Nobel Peace Prize for her campaign for world disarmament, has died in her sleep Saturday a day after her birthday.
Myrdal played a vital role in shaping Sweden’s modern history and together with her husband, economist Gunnar Myrdal, extended her influence across borders and oceans.
‘Myrdal was the author of scores of books on subjects ranging from preschool education to atomic warfare,
“During the 30s, I concentrated on the politics of the family, the 40s education, the 50s development issues, the 60s on disarmament and the 70s on the relationship between church and state.”
‘She was part of a circle of people that helped foster much of the social change that makes ‘Sweden the world’s most advanced ‘welfare society.
She was a former Cabinet: minister and member of Parliament, and Sweden’s first woman ambassador. She served as ambassador to India and Napal,
Since the 60s, Myrdal devoted her time to fighting the battle against the world arms race, and was head of the Swedish’ delegation to Geneva Disarmament Conference, She was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1982 together with Alfonso Garcia Robles.
Prime Minister of Palme, who visited Myrdal on Saturday, said, “We will remember Alva Mydral for the light in her personality, the power of her convictions, and the strength and width of her life’s achievements.”
Funeral plans were incomplete.
Article extracted from this publication >> February 7, 1986
