Sweden

National elections in Sweden are largely free and fair. Highly competitive elections have resulted in transfers of power, most recently in the 2022 general election, which saw a right-wing coalition win after a long period of left-wing parliamentary control. While observers have noted some administrative weaknesses in the election administration (such as the lack of formal observer accreditation and ballot-sealing procedures), these issues do not undermine the overall fairness or competitiveness of the electoral process. Electoral oversight in Sweden is independent and was not undermined by the authorities.

Independent media outlets, civil society organizations (CSOs), and members of the general public are largely free to openly criticize the government. Media pluralism is strong, and the government has taken additional measures to strengthen safeguards protecting journalists from abusive lawsuits and harassment. Civil society remains active, with many organizations operating across the political spectrum, and peaceful protests are held frequently without undue interference.

Institutions in Sweden are independent and serve as effective checks on the government. Professional judges are appointed through an independent process in which the judiciary plays a central role in limiting government discretion. However, institutional concerns remain regarding the independence of lay judges (nämndemän), who are appointed through political parties and, in rare cases, have been subject to pressure in their decision-making by the appointing party. While the government has not yet introduced meaningful safeguards to address the vulnerability of lay judges, it has advanced reforms further strengthening the independence of professional judges. Accordingly, Sweden’s judiciary remains able to hear cases challenging the government and to hold public officials accountable.