The Swedish government is investing 100 million SEK to tackle honor-related violence as part of its largest gender equality budget ever. Minister Nina Larsson highlights the historic nature of the nearly one billion SEK budget, aimed at supporting victims and organizations. The initiative includes new funding for women's shelters and regional resource centers, alongside a national action plan to enhance prevention and support efforts.
Swedish Government Allocates Millions to Combat Honor-Related Violence
Swedish Government Allocates Millions to Combat Honor-Related Violence
The Swedish government is investing 100 million SEK in efforts to combat honor-related violence. Minister Nina Larsson (L) describes it as part of "the largest gender equality budget ever."
"I am incredibly proud," she says.
In total, the government proposes investments of 918 million SEK in gender equality policy in the 2026 budget proposal. Of these, 166 million SEK are new investments.
"We are now presenting the largest gender equality budget ever. It is a historic investment reaching nearly one billion Swedish kronor. I am incredibly proud of it," says Gender Equality Minister Nina Larsson (L).
How will this be noticeable for those affected by violence or for organizations?
"Approximately 100 million is a new investment targeting honor-related violence and oppression. It is one of the worst forms of female oppression we see today, affecting hundreds of thousands of young people. It can involve anything from not being allowed to choose their clothes to threats, forced marriage, and, in the worst cases, death.
"We must ensure that there is equivalent support throughout the country."
Criticism of the Opposition
Of the total investments, 20 million SEK goes to women's and girls' shelters and other organizations in the victim support area. Additionally, municipalities, regions, and county councils receive over 100 million SEK to develop support for victims of violence, including through new regional resource centers.
Your party leader Simona Mohamsson has described how girls are controlled by their families and not allowed to participate in leisure activities. Why does this still happen after three years of conservative governance?
"This is an issue we have been advocating for many years, but we have faced resistance from other parties. The Social Democrats and the Left Party have not wanted to acknowledge the problem, perhaps out of fear of losing voters. Now we are moving forward, including criminalizing virginity tests and psychological violence."
"There is a Strong Distrust"
Nina Larsson speaks of legislative changes that have already had an effect but returns to the need for support close to those affected. A new national action plan against honor-related violence will also be developed to strengthen society's ability to prevent and combat this type of violence.
What differences will the new action plan make compared to previous strategies?
"It is much about competence. Authorities, social services, and municipalities need to be able to see and identify honor-related issues. The Gender Equality Agency and the Children's Ombudsman play important roles. They gather knowledge and ensure that we can educate the right people."
When the conversation shifts to women's shelters, the tone softens.
"Women's shelters do incredible work. For many affected, there is a strong distrust of the police and social services. Therefore, it is crucial that the shelters' commitment and competence receive support."
When asked how success in gender equality policy is measured, she responds:
"Right now, gender equality is under attack from several directions, with Islamist extremists and conservative forces wanting to turn back the clock. So I am convinced that this is the right path to take."