Sweden's history, science and technology, justice, and environmental issues During the seventh and eighth centuries, the Swedes were merchant mariners well known for their trade. In the 9th century, the Norse Vikings raided and ravaged the European continent as far as the Black and Caspian Seas. During the 11th and 12th centuries, Sweden slowly became a united Christian kingdom which later included Finland. Queen Margaret of Denmark united all the Nordic lands into the "Kalmar Union" in 1397. Frequent tensions within the countries and within the union gradually led to open conflict between the Swedes and Danes in the 15th century. The final disintegration of the union in the early 16th century resulted in a long rivalry between Norway and Denmark on the one hand and Sweden and Finland on the other. During and after World War I, in which Sweden remained neutral, the nation benefited from the worldwide demand for Swedish steel, ball bearings, wood pulp and matches. The post-war achievements provided the basis for the social welfare policies characteristic of modern Sweden. Sweden followed a policy of armed impartiality during World War II and currently remains independent. Sweden became a member of the European Union in 1995. Many of Sweden's scientific and technological activities are carried out by the scientific and technological office of the Swedish Embassy. The main mission of the Office for Science and Technology is to foster cooperation in research and development and other knowledge exchanges between Sweden and Japan. This is done by informing Swedish decision makers about developments in Japan and organizing study visits, seminars and other events. The office maintains widespread networks of contacts in Sweden and Japan, mainly with key people and organizations involved in research and innovation in government, academia and industry. Most of the Office of Science and Technology's activities are carried out within the framework of “programmes” managed in close cooperation and funded by Swedish government agencies and other organizations with responsibilities in the particular area covered by a programme. Current programs cover the following areas: (1) Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), (2) Life Sciences and Bioindustry, (3) Sustainable Development, and (4) Comprehensive Development of Japan's Science and Technology Policy and innovation system. Sweden is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary form of government. According to the Swedish Constitution, all public power derives from the people. The Swedish head of state, the king, has only ceremonial functions. The highest branch of the national government is the Parliament, which has 349 members in one chamber.