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 next year he will celebrate his 50th anniversary on the throne. The king or queen has no political power but 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 to govern the country. 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 until 1921 that we had democracy in Sweden, as it was not until then that both men and women were allowed to vote.

Poli­tical parti­ci­pa­tion

It is not enough for residents to participate in the general elections for a society to be democratic and you as a refugee under the Temporary Protection Directive are not allowed to vote in the general elections. However, there are other ways of getting involved in societal 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 nonprofit associations or engaging in political discussions with friends and colleagues.

Freedom of asso­ci­a­tion

As a refugee 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. These freedoms are regulated by Swedish law and apply to anyone who is in Sweden. It is important to know that 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 a resident 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.