Sweden’s Citizenship Policy Under Review: A Shift Towards National Security
In a significant development, Sweden’s political factions have reached a consensus regarding the citizenship status of dual nationals who engage in activities that jeopardize national security.
Proposed Changes to Citizenship Regulations
A bipartisan committee has put forth recommendations suggesting that individuals who obtained their citizenship through deceitful means, such as bribery or misinformation, should face revocation of their citizenship. Additionally, those involved in criminal acts posing threats to the state or falling under the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court could also be affected by these changes.
However, these proposals do not extend to suggestions from the minority government aimed at stripping gang members of their citizenship rights.
Justice Minister Gunnar Strommer emphasized that Sweden is confronting challenges related to “violent extremism,” hostile actions from state actors against Sweden, and pervasive organized crime networks.
Current Legal Framework and Future Votes
As it stands, Sweden’s constitution prohibits the revocation of citizenship. A parliamentary vote is scheduled for next year to consider amendments to this law. Opposition parties on the centre-left argue that rescinding citizenship from gang criminals would be excessive and complicated due to difficulties in defining applicable laws.
Conversely, governing parties on the centre-right—supported by the more extreme anti-immigration faction known as Sweden Democrats—are advocating for these changes in response to a troubling surge in gang-related violence and gun homicides across the nation.
Strommer expressed concern over current limitations: “The proposals I received today will not allow us to reclaim Swedish citizenship from gang leaders operating abroad who orchestrate shootings and bombings within our streets.”
Learning From Neighbors: Denmark’s Approach
The Swedish government points towards Denmark as an example where legislation permits removal of citizenship for actions deemed “seriously prejudicial” to national interests. Recently, Danish laws have been expanded to encompass certain severe forms of gang-related crimes.
In addition, Sweden’s minority government is taking steps toward stricter regulations concerning applications for Swedish nationality. Migration Minister Johan Forssell revealed alarming statistics indicating that last year alone saw police report 600 cases involving applicants considered threats to national security.
Starting June 2026, prospective citizens will generally need eight years of residency instead of five before applying for a passport. Furthermore, they will be required to pass tests assessing their knowledge of both Swedish language and societal norms.
Forssell remarked on previous leniencies regarding naturalization processes: “It has been far too easy” becoming a citizen; he envisions fostering pride associated with Swedish nationality: “We aim for a cohesive society where being Swedish holds greater significance.”
He added emphatically about cultural integration: “Children deserve opportunities like swimming and playing football; if you cannot accept this ethos, then perhaps Sweden isn’t your ideal home.”
Calls for Loyalty Oaths Among New Citizens
Jimmie Akesson—the leader of Sweden Democrats—has proposed even more stringent measures requiring new citizens take an oath pledging loyalty specifically towards Sweden; however this notion was absent from recent governmental inquiries into reforming immigration policies.
Kirsti Laakso Utvik—the author behind said inquiry—asserted that these proposed modifications would align Sweden more closely with practices observed across other European nations regarding immigration standards and national security considerations.
