The Moderate Party in Sweden aims to make integration a central issue in the upcoming election. Johan Forssell (M) introduces new proposals focusing on geographically defined integration zones, Swedish values, and a mandatory 'Sweden Contract' for newcomers. The plan seeks to clarify expectations and conditions for integration, potentially influencing the 2026 election debate.
Moderate Party's Bold Plan: Integration as a Key Election Issue
Moderate Party's Bold Plan: Integration as a Key Election Issue
Integration is set to become a central issue in the election. This is the goal as Johan Forssell (M) presents new Moderate Party proposals.
– I feel there is strong support for addressing these marginalized areas, he says.
The three largest parties in the Riksdag, S, SD, and M, will clash over integration policy in the election. This is clear after a Moderate Party working group presented a new platform on the subject.
The working group presents three main focus areas.
Geographically defined integration zones in vulnerable areas that allow for special legislation.
Swedish values with a democratic condition for associations receiving public funds, a revised anti-discrimination law, and a more aggressive policy against honor culture.
The 'Sweden Contract,' a mandatory agreement between newcomers and the state, aims to clarify expectations, rights, and obligations for those integrating. It is proposed as a prerequisite for Swedish citizenship and financial support, according to the Moderate proposal.
– It creates great clarity. What we hear from many who have arrived and tried to integrate is that it is very unclear what is expected of the individual, says Douglas Thor, the Muf leader who helped develop the proposal.
Hoping for Debate
But there is still a long way to go before the package becomes a reality. First, it will be reviewed, and possibly adjusted, at the Moderate Party's conference this fall.
– I believe the party will see the benefits of these measures for the people living in these areas, says Douglas Thor.
Migration Minister Johan Forssell hopes integration will be one of the main issues in the 2026 election.
– I believe the Swedish people expect us to present a direction to uplift these marginalized areas instead of the very harmful forced mixing that the Social Democrats engage in, he says and continues:
– Everyone understands that their proposal will involve building new high-rises in well-functioning residential areas and removing green spaces and groves. I don't think that solves the integration problems. I think it rather creates very large divisions between people.