In response to increasing gang-related violence, Sweden's political leaders are discussing potential changes to citizenship laws, targeting dual citizens engaged in criminal activities that threaten national security.
Sweden Moves to Revoke Citizenship from National Security Threats
Sweden Moves to Revoke Citizenship from National Security Threats
Sweden's government considers tough measures amid rising gang violence and gun crimes.
As Sweden grapples with a surge in gang violence and gun-related offenses, a notable proposal has emerged: dual citizens who engage in actions threatening national security could face revocation of their citizenship. This recommendation, endorsed by a cross-party committee, emphasizes that those who obtained citizenship through deception or fraudulent means may also be at risk.
While the governing coalition seeks to implement stricter policies aimed at battling organized crime, proposals to revoke citizenship for gangsters haven't gained full support, prompting debates over legal definitions and implications. Justice Minister Gunnar Strommer, addressing the issue, cited the challenges posed by "violent extremism" and criminal networks operating within and against Sweden.
Currently, Swedish law does not permit citizenship revocation, necessitating a parliamentary vote next year to amend existing statutes. Notably, opposition parties argue that targeting gang criminals specifically would pose complex legal challenges, and they worry about the potential consequences of such measures.
In contrast, Sweden's ruling centre-right factions and the anti-immigration Sweden Democrats advocate for swifter actions to curb the alarming trend in gang-related violence that undermines the country's peaceful reputation. Strommer pointed to Denmark's existing regulations, which allow citizenship revocation under specific serious offenses, as a benchmark for Sweden to explore.
In tandem with these citizenship discussions, the government intends to tighten the criteria for obtaining Swedish citizenship. Migration Minister Johan Forssell indicated a stringent review process for applicants, highlighting that 600 individuals on law enforcement's radar were deemed threats to national security last year. Starting in June 2026, residency requirements for citizenship applications are set to increase from five to eight years, while prospective citizens will need to demonstrate language proficiency and knowledge of Swedish societal values.
Forssell further articulated the vision of a cohesive Sweden where citizenship is a privilege, stating, "We are going to build a Sweden that sticks together, where Swedish citizenship matters more." Furthermore, Sweden Democratic leader Jimmie Akesson advocated for an oath of loyalty from new citizens, although this proposed requirement hasn't been included in recent government inquiries.
As the nation addresses these pressing security issues, Sweden's path forward may redefine the principles surrounding citizenship and national identity.
While the governing coalition seeks to implement stricter policies aimed at battling organized crime, proposals to revoke citizenship for gangsters haven't gained full support, prompting debates over legal definitions and implications. Justice Minister Gunnar Strommer, addressing the issue, cited the challenges posed by "violent extremism" and criminal networks operating within and against Sweden.
Currently, Swedish law does not permit citizenship revocation, necessitating a parliamentary vote next year to amend existing statutes. Notably, opposition parties argue that targeting gang criminals specifically would pose complex legal challenges, and they worry about the potential consequences of such measures.
In contrast, Sweden's ruling centre-right factions and the anti-immigration Sweden Democrats advocate for swifter actions to curb the alarming trend in gang-related violence that undermines the country's peaceful reputation. Strommer pointed to Denmark's existing regulations, which allow citizenship revocation under specific serious offenses, as a benchmark for Sweden to explore.
In tandem with these citizenship discussions, the government intends to tighten the criteria for obtaining Swedish citizenship. Migration Minister Johan Forssell indicated a stringent review process for applicants, highlighting that 600 individuals on law enforcement's radar were deemed threats to national security last year. Starting in June 2026, residency requirements for citizenship applications are set to increase from five to eight years, while prospective citizens will need to demonstrate language proficiency and knowledge of Swedish societal values.
Forssell further articulated the vision of a cohesive Sweden where citizenship is a privilege, stating, "We are going to build a Sweden that sticks together, where Swedish citizenship matters more." Furthermore, Sweden Democratic leader Jimmie Akesson advocated for an oath of loyalty from new citizens, although this proposed requirement hasn't been included in recent government inquiries.
As the nation addresses these pressing security issues, Sweden's path forward may redefine the principles surrounding citizenship and national identity.
