One in Four Swedish Politicians Face Increasing Threats and Harassment, Impacting Democratic Participation

A recent report from the Swedish National Council for Crime Prevention (Brå) reveals that one in four Swedish politicians experienced threats, harassment, violence, vandalism, or theft in 2024, underscoring a significant challenge to political safety and democracy. This survey, the seventh of its kind and commissioned by the government, collected responses from about 7,500 elected officials, representing various levels including the Riksdag and municipal assemblies.

The findings show that 25% of politicians faced victimization last year—a slight decline from the 29% recorded in the 2022 election year. Victimization rates are similar between politicians of foreign background (26.9%) and Swedish background (25.3%). Younger officials, particularly those aged 30-39, faced the highest rates at 35.9%, whereas only 13.6% of politicians aged 70 and above reported such incidents. Women politicians are slightly more vulnerable, with 27% reporting threats compared to 24% of men.

Party-wise, the Green Party members reported the highest victimization rate at 33.1%, followed by the Sweden Democrats (28.9%) and the Moderate Party (28.5%). Importantly, nearly half (47%) of those threatened considered resigning, highlighting the profound impact these threats have on political engagement and democracy.

The nature of these threats is evolving with social media playing a significant role, exposing politicians to constant online harassment as described by Annika Strandhäll, S-kvinnor chair and Riksdag member. Hanif Bali, a former Riksdag member, noted that while online hate is prevalent, the most severe risks stem from mentally ill individuals and politically motivated activists. Despite the prevalence, only 16% of incidents are reported to the police, often because victims doubt that official intervention will be effective or see threats as part of their job.

Both Strandhäll and Bali emphasized the importance of not deterring politicians from public service due to fear and harassment, warning that such trends threaten democratic participation and governance in Sweden.