Swedish Conscripts Reject Proposed Compensation Increase Amidst Rising Costs

Swedish conscripts have expressed strong dissatisfaction with the government's proposed increase in daily compensation, which they feel is inadequate given the context of rising living costs. Since 2017, the compensation has remained stagnant at 146 kronor per day, while inflation has surged by 32%, according to the Pliktrådet, the organization that represents the conscripts. They argue that, adjusted for inflation, compensation should actually be at least 193 kronor to reflect current economic conditions.

The government recently suggested incrementing the daily pay to 200 kronor, which Pliktrådet chairperson Alice Westlund criticized, noting that the increase amounts to merely 7 kronor in real terms. This proposal significantly lags behind the recommendation of a 288 kronor daily compensation made in a recent inquiry entitled "Redo!". Additionally, there is concern regarding disparities between conscript and officer compensation, as officer candidates are proposed to receive a higher increase from 175 to 240 kronor, suggesting a potential undervaluation of conscripts.

Despite the government's attempts to enhance military personnel conditions through an increased defense budget, conscripts feel their financial situations have not been accurately addressed. During their basic training, they receive an extra 90 kronor for meals on off days, totaling about 4,380 kronor monthly, but this is still seen as insufficient given the current economic climate. The backlash represents a growing concern for equitable compensation among military personnel in Sweden.