Swedish Parties Propose Sweeping Education Reforms Following Historic PISA Decline

Sweden's 2026 PISA results revealed a significant drop in students' academic performance, marking the lowest scores in mathematics, reading, and science in 25 years. In response, major political parties have proposed a range of reforms aimed at reversing this alarming trend ahead of the upcoming elections.

The Liberal Party, led by Simona Mohamsson, has pinpointed the widespread use of personal digital devices as a major factor in declining student focus and performance. They propose an outright ban on personal screens such as laptops and iPads in schools, labeling the widespread screen use a "screen pandemic." Liberals advocate for at least 60 minutes of daily reading, ensure every student receives a textbook per subject, enforce a minimum age for social media usage, and call for screen-free after-school programs.

The Social Democrats, under Magdalena Andersson, propose establishing a crisis commission to thoroughly analyze the causes of the educational decline and recommend urgent measures within six months. Andersson highlighted that Swedish students have lost knowledge equivalent to a whole year's learning and emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts between national and municipal levels. The commission will involve a parliamentary reference group to ensure broad political cooperation.

Other parties also presented reforms. Moderates suggest introducing new grading systems, early screening for learning difficulties, and removing Swedish as a second language. The Christian Democrats push for stricter school discipline, reduced screen time for young children, and improved nutrition with Swedish-produced meals. The Sweden Democrats favor increased state control over schools and insist on providing daily meat in school meals. The Left Party and Social Democrats urge banning for-profit schools and improving teachers’ conditions. Meanwhile, the Centre Party supports smaller class sizes and stricter rules for independent schools, and the Green Party calls for a more equitable school system with enhanced state oversight.

These proposals reflect a consensus on the severity of the educational crisis and the urgent need for reform across Sweden’s political spectrum. The parties are preparing to implement these ideas to combat the unprecedented decline in student outcomes, aiming to restore Sweden’s educational standards and improve future PISA results.