Sweden – a democracy

A democratic monarchy

Sweden is a democracy but also a monarchy with a king or queen as head of state. The current king is called Carl XVI Gustaf and in 2023 he celebrated his 50th anniversary on the throne. The king or queen has no political power and serves mostly as a symbol for the country.

What is democracy?

Sweden is a democratic country, which means that everyone living in Sweden has the opportunity to influence and decide how the country should be governed. There is not really a direct definition of the concept of “democracy” as the interpretation and construction of a democratic society is different in the countries that count as democracies. This is because democracy is constantly changing and evolving.

The basic idea of democracy

One basic idea of democracy is that anyone who is a citizen or lives in a democratic country should have the opportunity to participate and have an opinion on how the country should be governed, for example through regular elections.

Another basic democratic idea is that all people are equal and should have the same rights.

Democracy and human rights

Even if it is the majority that makes the decisions in a democracy, minorities have rights that the majority must take into account. Power in a democratic society must be exercised with respect for human rights. Everyone in society has the right to say what they think, but oppression against people or groups who have different opinions than what one has must not occur. It involves both listening to what others think and being able to express your own opinions; it is about showing respect for others and being respected yourself.

History of democracy in Sweden

In the 19th century, the basic concept developed that equality and justice should prevail between all people. These ideas became widespread and both trade union organisations, associations and parties were started around Europe. However, it was not until 1921 that we had democracy in Sweden. It was not until then that both men and women could vote.

Poli­tical parti­ci­pa­tion

It is not enough for citizens to participate in general elections for a society to be democratic. If you have a temporary residence permit under the Temporary Protection Directive, you cannot vote in the general elections, but there are other ways to get involved in social issues to make an impact. What happens outside elections and between elections is also important for democracy to work. Examples of that might include joining non-profit associations or engaging in political discussions with friends and colleagues.

Freedom of asso­ci­a­tion

As a person in need of protection under the Temporary Protection Directive, you have the right to join associations or express yourself politically by, for example, demonstrating, writing debate articles or arranging gatherings. In Sweden, we have freedom of speech and freedom of the press, which means that we are allowed to express our thoughts and opinions in speech and writing. These freedoms are regulated by Swedish law and apply to anyone who is in Sweden. However, the right to freely express one's opinions does not mean that you are allowed to violate someone else.

It is important that you as an individual in need of protection feel that you are a part of the community. You should feel that you have the opportunity to participate and influence your everyday life, whether it is school, at work, in your residential area, in the family or in any other context.