Sweden’s far-right party, the Sweden Democrats, says it has won the political arguments and now deserves a share of power for themselves. The party has been propping up a minority centre-right government for four years and has championed huge policy shifts in Sweden, especially on immigration.

Policy Shifts

The number of asylum seekers in Sweden has decreased by 97% from its peak a decade ago. The country’s immigration system has become one of the most stringent in Europe, with newcomers facing employment restrictions, language and culture tests, and reduced welfare payouts. Immigrants who break the law can be swiftly expelled, and others are offered payments to leave voluntarily.

The Sweden Democrats’ party leader, Jimmie Akesson, says that his party must now become a full-blown member of the coalition, controlling most of the key ministries in the cabinet if the right wins the vote. Akesson expects to control at least three of the most powerful ministries, including justice, defence, foreign affairs, or finance.

Reaction

Voters appear unconvinced, with a major poll in June showing support for the governing bloc, including the Sweden Democrats, at just 42.6%. The loosely aligned centre-left opposition, led by the Social Democrats, received 55.2% of the vote. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson’s decision to lift the taboo on cooperating with the Sweden Democrats has hurt other parties in his coalition, with several high-profile representatives quitting and the party’s support falling below the 4% threshold needed to win seats.

Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.