Controversies Emerge at Bokmässan 2025 Over Program Choices and Free Speech

As the Bokmässan (Book Fair) in Gothenburg approaches its opening on September 25, 2025, the event’s theme of 'Kärlek och lust' (Love and Lust) has sparked significant controversy due to the planned program items that touch on sensitive political topics, notably the Israel-Palestine conflict. The Vänskapsförbundet Sverige–Israel (Sweden-Israel Friendship Association) has organized contentious discussions, including one titled 'Unrwa, the link between terror and the UN' and another on 'The fabricated famine in Gaza.' Critics question the appropriateness of reminding attendees about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza amidst ongoing violence, suggesting that such discussions may overshadow the cultural focus of the fair.

Gabriel Zetterström, writing for DN, highlights the complexities of free speech at Bokmässan, noting the past controversies related to hate propaganda, particularly referencing the far-right publication Nya Tider's presence in previous years. Zetterström emphasizes Bokmässan's spokespersons' statement that program descriptions are submitted without oversight, raising concerns about inadequate content monitoring. Following backlash on social media, although the titles of presenting exhibitors were updated, the criticism regarding the content persists.

The fair, managed by Oskar Ekström for the first time this year, will run until September 28, featuring 325 seminars, 760 exhibitors, and 3,500 program items, including notable international guests such as Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Dan Brown. Security measures are heightened in light of ongoing tensions, with a protest planned outside the fair to honor journalists killed in the Gaza conflict. As the event aims to cater to a wide range of literary interests, it raises questions about balancing diverse voices while addressing critical societal issues.