Swedish Dispute in EU Over Climate Goals: 'Betrayal' Accusations Fly

A heated debate has erupted in the EU as Swedish politicians clash over new climate goals for 2040. The European Parliament rejected the Commission's proposal due to delays in its preparation, leaving politicians with only days to review it.

Alice Teodorescu Måwe from the Christian Democrats (KD) voted against the proposal, criticizing the Center Party (C), Social Democrats (S), Green Party (MP), and Left Party (V) for wanting to rush the new climate law. "It's irresponsible, unserious, and harmful!" she wrote on X.

Teodorescu Måwe, through her press secretary, told Expressen that the proposal should be thoroughly investigated as usual, rather than hastening the process. She argues that previous climate regulations have been complex and detrimental to European businesses' competitiveness.

"This time, it must be done right from the start," says Alice Teodorescu Måwe.

Harsh Criticism: 'Betrayal'

However, Emma Wiesner from the Center Party (C) calls Wednesday's vote a 'betrayal'.

"I didn't expect to witness such a reversal. But now we see clearly that Swedish Moderates are blocking climate responsibility," she asserts.

Wiesner criticizes the Commission for its delayed and diluted proposal but insists the process must continue.

"A climate goal was presented, delayed and watered down. I'm not satisfied with it – but we need a climate goal."

She is particularly critical of the Moderates.

"In the Swedish debate, they claim climate work should be done in the EU. Now we see it's nonsense when they come here and block the proposal."

Tomas Tobé from the Moderates (M) responds on X, dismissing Wiesner's criticism as 'political play'.

"We can note that, for example, the Center Party loudly criticized the goal they now want to fast-track, despite lacking an assessment of the consequences for Swedish forestry."

He tells Expressen he wants to investigate and negotiate the proposal.

"Now C is trying to rush this through, completely without a consequence analysis. We must ensure it's done well."

"I welcome Emma Wiesner to the negotiating table."

For Sweden, it's crucial to include forestry in the green transition, according to Tobé.

"Sweden wants to use the forest as part of our green transition. We've struggled to gain support in Brussels for this."

Wiesner questions whether the EU will have anything to present at the climate meeting in November. How do you see it?

"That's not true. We will negotiate this during the fall with the goal of having climate goals ready for the meeting in Brazil. That's where we need to reach."