Stricter Legislation Forces Women's Shelters in Sweden to Close

In Sweden, the tightening of legal requirements for women's shelters and protected accommodations is leading to a distressing wave of closures affecting vulnerable women and children. Approximately 200 women's shelters and around 280 protected accommodations currently operate in the country, but recent legislative measures have imposed significant restrictions that make it increasingly difficult for these organizations to function.

Adine Samadi, president of Roks, and Annika Strandhäll, president of S-kvinnor, have raised alarm over these developments, emphasizing that the new licensing requirements from last year have introduced stricter demands regarding staffing and necessitated paid personnel. Notably, a recent mandate requiring 24/7 staffing has created insurmountable challenges for many volunteer-run shelters, effectively forcing them into closure. Reports indicate that there are currently no protected accommodations left in regions such as Gävleborg and Norrbotten, raising concerns that women may be compelled to remain in abusive relationships with limited support options available.

The law now stipulates that organizations must have a manager with a higher education in social services law, further narrowing the pool of eligible shelters. The interpretation of these regulations is critical, as many shelters rely on volunteer assistance that, while essential, does not comply with the new legal definitions of staffing. Samadi and Strandhäll have publicly urged the government to intervene and reconsider the law governing protected accommodations, as the consequences of non-action could leave many women without necessary support services.