Far-Right Salemmarschen March Returns After 15 Years Amid Police Clampdown and Political Condemnation

The far-right Salemmarschen march took place in Salem, Sweden, on December 6, 2025, marking its return after a 15-year hiatus. Organized by a man linked to the neo-Nazi group Nordiska motståndsrörelsen (NMR), the event drew approximately 100 to 150 participants, despite police permission for up to 2,000 attendees.

Authorities anticipated disturbances and declared a special police operation involving mounted officers and the use of pepper spray. Hundreds of counter-demonstrators also gathered, some attempting to breach police barricades near the local Christmas market, a traditional peaceful event held at Rönninge torg in opposition to the march. Clashes led to 15 people being taken into custody, and one police officer was struck but sustained no serious injuries. Police remained vigilant to maintain order and allow both sides to express their views.

The Salemmarschen has historical significance as an annual march from 2000 to 2010 commemorating the murder of 17-year-old Daniel Wretström, an incident that galvanized right-wing extremist movements in Sweden. Local authorities, including Salems kommun, opposed the reunion of the march citing values of openness and inclusion, although their appeal against the permit was rejected.

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson strongly condemned the march, labeling it an expression of a “terrible worldview” with no place in Sweden, emphasizing the country's values of freedom, equality, and democracy. Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer acknowledged the right to demonstrate but stressed the importance of combating hate and violence. Socialdemokraterna’s Teresa Carvalho described the resurgence of Nazis on the streets as “terrible and dangerous,” urging non-violent opposition to far-right extremism.

Local residents voiced frustration at the return of such events, lamenting the loss of peace following 15 years without the march. The police continue to monitor the situation closely as both demonstrations and counter-protests unfold.

The Salemmarschen’s revival highlights ongoing tensions in Swedish society around far-right activism and the measures authorities take to balance public order and democratic rights.