Tight Race in Sweden as Kristersson Opens Door to Hard-Right Allies

Sweden is heading into a closely fought election, with the country’s main political blocs separated by a narrow margin ahead of Sunday’s vote.

Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson has indicated that the Sweden Democrats could receive cabinet positions if the governing right-wing bloc retains power.

ValidViewNetwork reports that the Sweden Democrats already support Kristersson’s government but have remained outside the cabinet.

The party has its roots in Sweden’s far-right and neo-Nazi movement, although it has since sought to present itself as a mainstream nationalist party.

Recent polling has shown a narrow advantage for the left-leaning bloc supporting former Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson, setting up a potentially tight result.

ADVERTISEMENT

National security, gang violence, immigration and welfare have dominated the campaign.

The election could therefore determine not only who governs Sweden, but also how much influence the hard right gains inside government.

ValidViewNetwork reports that Sunday’s vote is being watched closely across Europe because of the growing influence of right-wing parties in Swedish politics.