Sweden’s election: A tight race as the far right nears government

Swedes will vote in general elections on Sunday in an extremely close contest that could open the way for the far right to enter government for the first time if the parties on that side secure a majority.

According to a Dagens Nyheter/Ipsos poll, the difference between the two blocs is just 0.3 points. The center-left alliance is projected to win 175 seats, while the right-wing bloc could secure 174 seats in parliament.

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

The path toward normalizing cooperation with the far right began in 2022, when incumbent Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and his party, the Moderates, cooperated with the Sweden Democrats, SD.

Since then, the SD has gained considerable influence, particularly over policies related to immigration and crime. Kristersson is now promising to offer the party ministerial posts if the right wing wins again.

Civil rights experts say that including the SD in government could further damage Sweden’s traditional image as one of the leading defenders of human rights.

The government has already introduced tougher measures, including numerous deportations, lowering the age of criminal responsibility and strengthening immigration policies.

Among the SD’s demands are further reductions in immigration, the cancellation of permanent residence permits and tougher measures against people of foreign origin. The party’s slogan is: “Make Sweden Swedish again.”