UN Condemns Sweden's Security Zones for Racial Profiling and Legal Violations

The UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD) has delivered a sharp rebuke of Sweden's security zones, criticizing their allowance for police searches without specific suspicion. Established in April in areas with significant risks of explosions or shootings, these zones permit body searches and vehicle inspections, raising concerns of racial profiling and breaches of international law.

Composed of 18 international experts, CERD labeled the practice as "repugnant and illegal." Vice-chair Gay McDougall told Svenska Dagbladet that these security zones violate the international convention against racial discrimination, to which Sweden is a signatory. The committee's report, published in Geneva, also links criticism to the Tidö Agreement, highlighting the government's policy direction on security measures.

In response, Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer’s spokesperson Ebba Koril defended the zones, emphasizing that Sweden’s government had carefully weighed discrimination issues and ensured legal safeguards. She stated that the measures are consistent with fundamental rights and do not violate international treaties. Nevertheless, CERD urged Sweden to review its anti-discrimination laws to explicitly prevent racial profiling and protect civil liberties within these zones.

This international critique comes amid ongoing debates on balancing security and civil rights in Sweden, spotlighting the tension between law enforcement prerogatives and adherence to human rights obligations.