- Sweden Considers Amending Public Order Act Amidst Rising Security Concerns
- Freedom of Expression vs. National Security: The Debate in Sweden
- Mixed Reactions to Proposed Police Authority Expansion
It was announced on Friday that the Swedish government is contemplating amending the Public Order Act to allow police to deny permission for acts such as the burning of the Holy Quran if they pose a threat to national security.
Sweden raised its terror alert to the second-highest level on Thursday, claiming it had thwarted attacks after Muslims were incensed by the burning of the Holy Quran and other acts against Islam’s holiest text.
The Swedish government won’t amend its broad freedom of expression laws that cover insults against public figures and faiths.
However, Justice Minister Gunnar Strommer announced on Friday that he would appoint a commission to examine expanding police authority to deny acts such as the burning of the Holy Quran.
“Of course, general international discontent or a nebulous threat should not suffice. It must be about serious and credible threats,” Strommer said at a news conference.
He added that it could provide police with the authority to relocate a protest or disperse it.
In recent months, an Iraqi residing in Sweden has damaged multiple copies of the Holy Quran.
The decision to appoint a commission was met with instantaneous skepticism from several political parties. Including the pro-government Sweden Democrats, who oppose immigration.
“Even if different values must always be weighed against one another, the Sweden Democrats will never accept that we adapt to threats and pressure from Islamists and dictatorships,” said Jimmie Akesson, leader of the Sweden Democrats.
The government heightened security at embassies and other posts on Friday due to increased threats to Swedish interests abroad.
Tobias Billstrom, the Swedish foreign minister, told TT that Sweden has enhanced security at embassies and other missions. But declined to provide specifics for security reasons.
“However, the safety of the staff of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is the highest priority,” he said, adding that the safety of diplomats’ families and local staff was also considered.
“Therefore, various groups are impacted by the intensified security efforts,” he explained.
