Andrea Innocenti In Sweden, voters have cast their votes for the 349 members of the Riksdag, the national parliament. Exit polls indicate a lead for the center-left opposition, led by Magdalena Andersson's Social Democrats. However, the road to forming a new government is still long and full of uncertainties.
The four-party center-left coalition, which includes the Social Democrats, appears to have secured a majority, paving the way for Andersson's return to government.
However, outgoing Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, leader of the centre-right, is not giving up and aims to maintain power with the support of the Sweden Democrats, an anti-immigration party with far- right roots.
The challenge of immigration and crime
Immigration and crime were central issues of the election campaign.
Both sides have adopted tough positions on these issues, with the center-right promoting some of the strictest anti-migrant legislation in Europe. However, voters appear to have shifted their focus to other issues, such as healthcare, education, and the economy.
The center-left aims to strengthen the health care and education systems, promising to raise taxes for high-income earners and banks.
Magdalena Andersson reiterated the importance of strengthening Sweden's external and internal security, but also of promoting equality and inclusion.
The unknown of the Sweden Democrats
The Sweden Democrats, led by Jimmie Åkesson, played a crucial role in the outgoing government, supporting it without, however, obtaining formal positions. This time, however, the party is demanding key ministries, such as Justice, Immigration, Finance, Foreign Affairs, and Defense. This request has raised concerns, especially after the scandal involving a party official accused of spreading pro-Russian propaganda.
Social Democratic leader Andersson harshly criticized Kristersson for allowing the Sweden Democrats to cooperate with the government, calling it a matter of national security. The situation is further complicated by the 4% threshold needed to enter Parliament, which could exclude some smaller parties, such as the Liberals.
The scourge of juvenile gangs
In addition to immigration and crime, Sweden faces the scourge of juvenile gangs. Criminal gangs recruit children, sometimes as young as 10, to commit violent acts and traffic drugs. Despite legal reforms, the phenomenon persists, requiring a preventative and educational approach.
Stockholm Deputy Mayor Alexander Ojanne emphasized the importance of education in helping young people lead healthy lives. However, there is still a long way to go and it requires everyone's commitment.