The Swedish government is facing criticism from the Sweden Democrats over the possibility of providing medical care to patients from Gaza. While the government has not ruled out the option, the Sweden Democrats argue that it is a misallocation of resources, given the current strains on Sweden's healthcare system. The debate highlights differing views on international aid and healthcare priorities.
Swedish Government Faces Criticism Over Potential Medical Aid to Gaza Patients
Swedish Government Faces Criticism Over Potential Medical Aid to Gaza Patients
The government does not rule out providing medical care to patients from Gaza. This stance is now being criticized by the Sweden Democrats.
"We believe it is a misallocation of resources," says SD leader Jessica Stegrud.
Sweden's ability to care for patients from war-torn Gaza has recently sparked debate. Both parts of the opposition and the Swedish Association of Health Professionals have demanded that the injured be brought here, similar to actions taken by several other European countries.
The government's position has so far been that it is not currently relevant, but on Monday, the medical journal Läkartidningen reported that Health Minister Acko Ankarberg Johansson (KD) does not rule out accepting patients for treatment in Sweden, as a complement to on-site support.
The statement, which she gave in a written question to the Green Party's spokesperson Daniel Helldén, is interpreted by several as a shift in the government's stance, including by the coalition partner, the Sweden Democrats.
SD Leader: "Commendable"
Jessica Stegrud, representing SD in the social committee, is critical and points to the current resource and capacity shortages in healthcare.
"The Swedish Association of Health Professionals warns of stressed staff, staff leaving, waiting lists, and more. We have major problems in parts of Swedish healthcare, and we believe Swedish taxpayers must be prioritized, even if it is commendable," she says.
Stegrud also questions why the debate focuses on patients from Gaza when there are people in need in many places around the world.
"There are other ongoing conflicts where one could argue that we should also help if that's the case."
Is there any situation where SD could open up to receiving patients from Gaza?
"It's entirely hypothetical. Fundamentally, there are several wealthy neighboring countries with healthcare capacity that can do their part. We are already doing an incredible amount in terms of aid, and we have received a large number of migrants over the past 20-30 years," says Stegrud.
Minister: No New Policy
According to Jessica Stegrud, it could become an election issue for the Sweden Democrats if the government proceeds with accepting the injured from Gaza.
"Anyone who truly wants to accept citizens from other countries must ask themselves, which Swedish patient should we say no to? Because that's what it comes down to."
Expressen has sought Acko Ankarberg Johansson, who declines to comment. According to the health minister's press secretary, the government is not pursuing a new policy on the issue and has given similar responses over the past year. They also point out that TT has changed its headline from "Minister Changes Stance on Patients from Gaza" to "Minister Does Not Rule Out Care for Gaza Patients."