Is the far right heading into Sweden’s government? Election held under slogan “Make Sweden Swedish again

Sweden votes in a general election on Sunday, in a closely balanced contest that could pave the way for the far right to enter government for the first time. According to analysts, this could happen if the bloc of right-wing parties secures a majority.

A poll published by Dagens Nyheter/Ipsos highlights the razor-thin gap between the two camps: the center-left alliance is expected to win 175 seats, while the right-wing bloc is projected to secure 174 seats in parliament. Just 0.3 points separate them.

Magdalena Andersson, representing the Social Democrats, is considered the favorite to return as prime minister. However, her lead has narrowed significantly in recent days.

In 2022, current Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and his Moderate Party broke a longstanding taboo by cooperating with the Sweden Democrats, SD, a far-right party.

Since then, SD has gained considerable influence, particularly over decisions on immigration and crime. Kristersson has already promised that, if the right wins again, the party will also be offered ministerial posts.

According to civil rights experts, SD’s inclusion in the cabinet could further damage Sweden’s traditional image as one of the strongest defenders of human rights.

Meanwhile, the government has already toughened its approach through numerous deportations, lowering the age of criminal responsibility, and imposing tighter immigration restrictions.

Among other things, the Sweden Democrats are calling for a further reduction in immigration, the abolition of permanent residence permits, and stricter measures against people of foreign origin. Their slogan is: “Make Sweden Swedish again.”