Study Reveals Gradual Decline of Democracy in Sweden
New research highlights a gradual decline in democracy in Sweden, marked by increased political polarization and negative political rhetoric.
Key Points
- • Gradual decline in democracy noted in a Gothenburg University study.
- • Politicians increasingly use negative language, increasing polarization.
- • Support for extreme parties rises, while centrist parties lose ground.
- • Decrease in kindness among those with differing political views observed.
A recent study from Gothenburg University has unveiled a gradual decline in democracy in Sweden, paralleling similar concerns seen globally. The research indicates an alarming rise in political polarization, fueled by politicians increasingly resorting to negative rhetoric about specific groups. This shift has been linked to a growing support for both extreme right and left political parties, which has further marginalized centrist approaches.
The study highlights that political parties are increasingly prioritizing their own voter bases over the wider societal interest. Sandra Grahn, a key researcher on the study, emphasized that a healthy democracy should aim for the well-being of all citizens, not merely those aligned with specific parties. Moreover, social kindness appears to be waning, with individuals reporting a decrease in amicability toward those with differing political views compared to three years ago.
Staffan I Lindberg, another member of the research team, noted that while these changes are currently small, they are significant enough to merit ongoing attention. The implications of this trend raise concerns about the future of democratic collaboration in Sweden, as a divided political landscape threatens social cohesion and collective problem-solving efforts.