US EditionSweden Democrats Distance From Dark Past with Nazi Ties Apology
- The Sweden Democrats apologized on Thursday for their past Nazi ties and antisemitism as part of a strategic effort ahead of next year's national election.
- This action follows the release of an 800-page study by historian Tony Gustafsson detailing prevalent Nazi and antisemitic views at party events and in publications during the 1980s and 1990s.
- Party leader Jimmie Åkesson acknowledged the party's extremist origins, expressed regret for frightening Swedish Jews, and stated that the party now draws clear boundaries against antisemitism.
- Christer Mattsson, a researcher who reviewed the report, called it 'a genuine academic document,' while influential member Mattias Karlsson condemned the party’s past antisemitism and reiterated the apology.
- The apology and study represent the party's effort to distance itself from its extremist past, foster better relations with mainstream political groups, and pursue the goal of participating in a governing alliance following the 2026 national election.
18 Articles
18 Articles
The document, commissioned by the Swedish Democrats, to a researcher, confirms the links between the party, founded in 1988, and the national-socialist movement. On Tuesday, its leader, Jimmie Akesson, had already presented his "apologies" to the Swedish Jews.
Denver Gazette
The Straits TimesSweden Democrats apologise for past Nazi links, antisemitism as election nears
By Johan Ahlander
Sweden Democrats Distance from Dark Past with Nazi Ties Apology
The Sweden Democrats apologized for their past links to Nazism and antisemitism as part of an effort to present a more moderate image ahead of the upcoming national election. A commissioned study revealed Nazi and antisemitic views in the party's past. The party seeks integration with Sweden's mainstream politics.
The Sweden Democrats' white paper will not be released in digital form after it was presented in Almedalen, reports Göteborgs-Posten. Instead, it has been printed in 100 copies to be distributed during Thursday's press conference.
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