NewStatesman: Why Sweden Is Turning Right

The Scandinavian countries have long been a role model on human rights, equality and control over globalization. But Sweden is slowly showing a rightward shift, and its leading anti-immigrant party, the Sweden Democrats won 17 percent in the September election. Swedes worry about a loss of control with the shutdown of traditional industries like shipyards, increased crime and changes in culture due to immigration. Swedish politicians generally favor tight border controls, explains Andrew Brown for New Statesman. Most political leaders express welcome for refugees as long as jobs are available though the conservative Swedish Democrats worry about failure to assimilate and a divided society. Refugees and citizens expect political parties to deliver economic security and stability. Sweden ranks 12th in average annual income, well above Germany or the United Kingdom, and Sweden ranked first in 2017 for caring about human rights. – YaleGlobal