Swedish Government Proposes New Legislation to Strengthen Fight Against Gang Crime

The Swedish government has unveiled a new legislative proposal aimed at intensifying the fight against gang crime by expanding criminal liability and empowering law enforcement agencies. The proposal focuses on broadening accountability for attempts, preparations, and conspiracy related to gang-related offenses, thus enabling early intervention and enhancing the ability to target gang leaders effectively.

Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer highlighted the law’s intent to address the entire criminal chain, particularly emphasizing the targeting of leaders who orchestrate violence and the recruitment of children. The new legislation stipulates that digitally recruiting minors into gangs will become a punishable offense, even if no financial transactions occur. To crack down on these activities, police will be authorized to pose as minors in online chats to identify and apprehend offenders.

These measures are a response both to ongoing challenges with gang violence and criticisms from legal authorities, as well as a recent court case known as the “weapons case,” where suspects were released due to complications involving the use of replica weapons as evidence.

The expanded scope of criminal responsibility aims to include more preparatory actions than the current legislation, allowing law enforcement to dismantle criminal networks and hold leaders accountable before crimes escalate. The proposal sets an implementation timeline with the expanded criminal responsibility taking effect on April 1, 2026, and other reforms expected from July 1, 2026.

This legislative move signals a modernization of Swedish law to better align with contemporary realities, acknowledging the digital environment where gangs recruit youth and operate. Strömmer remarked that enabling proactive law enforcement tactics is key to protecting vulnerable populations and reducing gang-related harm nationwide.