Threats Against Women Politicians in Sweden Rise, Leading to Resignations and Democratic Concerns
A surge in threats against women politicians in Sweden has led to resignations and raised concerns about the health of democracy, according to a recent survey.
- • Anna-Karin Hatt resigned as Center Party leader due to threats and hate.
- • A Brå survey found 25% of politicians faced threats or harassment in 2024, with women more affected.
- • 65% of parliament members reported being targeted, mostly by far-right groups online.
- • Threats have caused some politicians to consider leaving their roles, threatening democratic engagement.
Key details
Anna-Karin Hatt has resigned as leader of Sweden's Center Party due to sustained threats and hate, highlighting a troubling trend affecting politicians nationwide. According to a 2025 survey by the Brottsförebyggande rådet (Brå), one in four Swedish politicians faced threats, harassment, violence, vandalism, or theft in 2024, with women disproportionately targeted—27% compared to 24% of men. Members of the national parliament experienced the highest rates of intimidation, with 65% reporting incidents. Far-right and racist groups are often responsible for such threats, which predominantly occur online. These hostile acts have forced some politicians to reconsider their careers, with about 25% of those threatened contemplating resignation. Young politicians aged 30-39 are especially vulnerable. Edward Riedl (M) recounted receiving threats and vandalism at his home, warning about the dangers of deterring public participation. Anna Frenzel of Brå emphasized that this rising intimidation threatens democratic participation and could discourage individuals from engaging in political work. The Green Party reported the highest level of affected politicians at 33%, whereas the Center Party had the lowest at 20%. This underlines an urgent need to address the safety of elected officials ahead of the 2026 elections.