Karl Ivan Westman (August 5, 1889 – 1971), Swedish diplomat, 1928–1938 Sweden's Minister in Bern and at the League of Nations, in connection with the Continuation War Sweden's ambassador to Helsinki March 1941 – October 1942, and after World War II Sweden's ambassador to Paris 1947–1956.
Westman had, as the highly intelligent man he was, done a fast career in Sweden's foreign ministry. His analyses of the host countries, and the power play at the League of Nations, were considered outstanding — a judgement that holds also in retrospect. The mission at the League of Nations was considered central to Sweden's foreign policy during the interbellum; and when appointed to Helsinki, that was at a moment when it was considered the most crucial of Sweden's embassies. For a diplomat, he was however also extraordinarily outspoken, often with a significant amount of sarcasm and unveiled criticism.
Karl Ivan Westman was the brother of Karl Gustaf Westman, Sweden's Justice Minister during World War II.
Read more about Karl Ivan Westman: Finland and Operation Barbarossa
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