The Sweden Democrats (SD) are calling for the Church of Sweden to take a more active role in the abortion debate, emphasizing the sanctity of life. While SD insists this is not a challenge to current abortion laws, Social Democrats express concern over potential threats to women's rights. The discussion arises ahead of the church elections, with SD highlighting the church's unique position to address ethical issues.
SD Urges Swedish Church to Engage in Abortion Debate
SD: Swedish Church Should Debate Abortion
The Sweden Democrats (SD) want the Church of Sweden to become more active in the debate on abortion and the rights of the unborn. The Social Democrats view this as a challenge to abortion rights.
"It's not about commenting on current laws, but there should be an ethical discussion about the sanctity of life," says Daniel Engström, SD's group leader in the Church Assembly.
Ahead of the church elections, Sweden Democrats in the Church of Sweden emphasize that the church should play a more active role in the abortion debate.
"If there is a debate on this, we believe they can raise the issue of the unborn's right to life. I understand it's a complex and difficult debate, but the Church of Sweden is a unique institution that can highlight, for example, human dignity," says Daniel Engström.
The Sweden Democrats' church association states in its election manifesto that the Church of Sweden lacks a theological foundation in its stance on abortion, as previously reported by SVT.
"As a church, it is of utmost importance to emphasize that all life is created by God and therefore has inherent value and sanctity," the manifesto states.
Criticism: Rolling Back Rights
Daniel Engström says it's not about taking a stance on abortion or having a different opinion from the Sweden Democrats.
"We absolutely do not question the Swedish abortion legislation. As an independent church association, we have the same stance as the Sweden Democrats party," he says.
Jesper Eneroth, chairman of the Social Democrats' church assembly group, disagrees.
"It's worrying reading but unfortunately not surprising that they are now questioning abortion rights. It's part of an effort to roll back women's rights both in the church and in society," he writes in a statement.
Response: Misunderstanding
"It's a very gross misunderstanding. Raising the issue is not in any way demanding a change in the law; it's not the church's task," says Daniel Engström.
He sees no contradiction in participating in the debate without taking a stance.
"The Church of Sweden can highlight the inviolable value of all people without commenting on or interfering with politicians, for example, tightening immigration, so it's exactly the same here," says Daniel Engström.